STREPTOKINASE

Use

Streptokinase (Kabikinase, Streptase)is a catabolic 47,000-d protein secreted by group Cβ-hemolyticstreptococci. It is a protein with no intrinsic enzymaticactivity. Streptokinase activates plasminogen toplasmin, a proteolytic enzyme that hydrolyzes fibrin andpromotes the dissolution of thrombi. Plasminogen is activatedwhen streptokinase forms a 1:1 stoichiometric complexwith it. Allergic reactions to streptokinase occur commonlybecause of antibody formation in individuals treatedwith it. Furthermore, the antibodies inactivate streptokinaseand reduce its ability to prolong thrombin time.Streptokinase is indicated for acute myocardial infarction,for local perfusion of an occluded vessel, and before angiography,by intravenous, intra-arterial, and intracoronaryadministration, respectively.