Activase – uses, health risks, and side effects at NaturalPedia.com

Friday, August 03, 2018 by Zoey Sky

Activase is the trade name of alteplase, a thrombolytic drug that helps the body produce a substance that can break up unwanted blood clots.

The drug is recommended for patients who have had a stroke caused by a blood clot or other obstructions in the blood vessel. Activase can also help prevent death from an acute myocardial infarction or heart attack.

Activase is also used to treat patients with pulmonary embolism or a blood clot in the lung.

Known health risks or side effects of Activase

Activase may cause side effects such as:

An allergic reaction – Signs include difficulty breathing; hives; or swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue.
Non-stop bleeding – May occur since Activase increases a patient’s risk of bleeding. This side effect may even be severe or life-threatening.

Severe signs of internal bleeding that require immediate medical attention include:

Bloody or tarry stools
Coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
Easy bruising or bleeding (e.g., bleeding gums; bleeding from a wound, incision, catheter, or needle injection; or nosebleeds)
Red or pink urine
Sudden numbness or weakness (especially on only one side of the body), sudden severe headache, slurred speech, problems with vision or balance

List of organs that might be affected by Activase

Activase may cause the following complications:

Bluish lips, nail beds, fingers, or toes
Chest pain or pressure
Severe dizziness or passing out
A severe headache
Severe stomach pain
Skin turning black or purple
Kidney problems – May include being unable to pass urine, blood in the urine, a change in how much urine is passed, or a significant weight gain.
Pancreatitis – May involve severe stomach pain, severe back pain, or vomiting.

Patients may also suffer from internal bleeding, like the brain, kidneys or bladder, stomach or intestines, or within the muscles.

Food items or nutrients that have similar effects to Activase

The following foods or nutrients have similar effects to Activase:

Garlic – Garlic can help prevent and treat various cardiovascular and metabolic conditions such as blood clots. Consuming raw garlic can also reverse plaque buildup and prevent the further accumulation of plaque in the arteries.
Turmeric – Turmeric, a spice that minimizes inflammation, can also act as a natural anticoagulant and antiplatelet treatment. It contains curcumin, a polyphenol that can inhibit the formation of blood clots thanks to its anticoagulant properties.
Vitamin E – Vitamin E is another natural anticoagulant that can help prevent ischemic heart disease and stroke. Sources include almonds, avocado, broccoli, butternut squash, hazelnuts, kiwi, mango, spinach, sunflower seeds, and tomato.

Treatments, management options for the side effects of Activase

The foods or nutrients can help prevent the side effects associated with Activase:

Echinacea – Echinacea is a potent herb that can strengthen the immune system. An echinacea-based tea can help fight infections and treat a fever.
Ginger – A cup of warm ginger tea can help treat nausea. You can also eat a small piece of fresh ginger root or candied ginger.
Vitamin B-6 – Foods that contain vitamin B-6 can help address dizziness. Sources include apricots, lean pork, pistachios, prunes, tuna, and turkey.