indication

Urokinase can be used for the treatment of pulminary embolism, coronary artery thrombosis, IV catheter clearance, and venous and arterial blood clots.

pharmacology

Urokinase is used for the treatment of pulmonary embolisms. The low molecular weight form of human urokinase consists of an A chain of 2,000 daltons linked by a sulfhydryl bond to a B chain of 30,400 daltons. Urokinase is an enzyme (protein) produced by the kidney, and found in the urine. There are two forms of urokinase which differ in molecular weight but have similar clinical effects. Urokinase is the low molecular weight form. Urokinase acts on the endogenous fibrinolytic system. It converts plasminogen to the enzyme plasmin. Plasmin degrades fibrin clots as well as fibrinogen and some other plasma proteins.

mechanism of action

Urokinase acts on the endogenous fibrinolytic system. It cleaves the Arg-Val bond in plasminogen to produce active plasmin. Plasmin degrades fibrin clots as well as fibrinogen and other plasma proteins.

biotransformation

Proteolysis

half life

12 minutes. Small fractions of the administered dose are excreted in bile and urine

route of elimination

Urokinase administered by intravenous infusion is rapidly cleared by the liver. Small fractions of the administered dose are excreted in bile and urine

drug interactions

Aprotinin: Aprotonin may antagonize the effect of Urokinase. Monitor for decreased effects of Urokinase.

Drotrecogin alfa: Increased risk of bleeding.

Ginkgo biloba: Increased risk of bleeding.

Ginseng: Increased risk of bleeding.