Cathflo Activase
General Drug Information and Indications
Alteplase (tPA) for restoration of function in blocked IV catheters; thrombolytic dissolving fibrin clots.
Thrombolytic enzyme (alteplase / recombinant tissue plasminogen activator / rtPA). Mechanism: cleaves plasminogen to plasmin → dissolves fibrin clots occluding intravascular access devices. For intraluminal instillation only in catheter clearance; not for systemic administration in this context.
Key information
Alteplase — thrombolytic. Refrigerate. Use only for catheter clearance — not systemic thrombolysis. Single dose; discard unused portion. Monitor for bleeding.
How to Give this Medication
Intraluminal catheter instillation only. Reconstitute per instructions; instill prescribed volume into catheter lumen; allow to dwell for 30–120 min; aspirate and flush. Do not infuse systemically.
If a dose is missed
This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.
Side Effects
Intraluminal use only. Systemic thrombolysis if inadvertently administered systemically: hemorrhage, bleeding. Local: catheter site complications. Rare: anaphylaxis.
Precautions
For animals
For intraluminal catheter instillation only — not for systemic IV administration. Verify catheter patency before instillation.
For people handling this medication
Administered by veterinary professionals only. No specific human precautions for caregivers beyond normal hygiene.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Alteplase overdose causes serious bleeding. Emergency supportive care required.
Cathflo Activase dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CATHFLO ACTIVASE 2MG INJECTABLE: ALTEPLASE | 2 MG | Injectable | 1 | Commercial |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)