Lupiflo

Lupiflo Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Lupiflo is a brand name. Its generic name is Streptokinase.

Introduction

Lupiflo (SK) is the most common form of fibrinolytic treatment for heart diseases. Lupiflo is a powerful fibrinolytic enzyme derived from a specific group of bacteria referred to as β-streptococci. It works by breaking down the fibrin strands blocking the blood vessels, thus allowing the blood to flow freely to the heart and other parts of the body.

Uses

Lupiflo is used to treat and prevent a range of cardiac conditions, including: coronary artery thrombosis, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, arterial and venous blockage, massive pulmonary embolism, and pericarditis.

Mechanism of Action

Lupiflo works by activating plasminogen molecules in the blood to produce plasmin, an enzyme that works to dissolve and break down fibrin. Fibrin is a component of blood clots, and it is the fibrin strands that cause blockages in the blood vessels. Plasmin works to dissolve the fibrin strands in order to clear the blocked vessels.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

Lupiflo generally starts working very quickly after being administered. While some people may experience relief from symptoms in a few minutes, it can take up to several hours for the fibrinolytic action to take full effect.

Absorption

Although streptokinase is not quickly absorbed from the gut, small amounts of SK can be found in the bloodstream after oral administration. SK is mainly absorbed from the lungs after it is inhaled.

Route of Elimination

Lupiflo is mainly eliminated through the kidneys and the bile. It is also metabolized in the liver.

Dosage

The dosage of streptokinase depends on the medical condition being treated. The recommended dose for coronary artery thrombosis is 1.5 million units of streptokinase intravenously over about 1 to 2 hours. For deep vein thrombosis, the recommended dose is 250,000 units of streptokinase intravenously over about 1 to 2 hours. For arterial or venous blockage, the recommended dose is 1.5 million units of streptokinase intravenously as a bolus over about 15 minutes.

Administration

Lupiflo is usually administered intravenously. In some cases, it may be administered as an inhalation or as an injection.

Side Effects

Common side effects of streptokinase include headache, fever, nausea, dizziness, chest pain, and low blood pressure. It can also cause an allergic reaction, which can be severe and potentially life-threatening.

Toxicity

Lupiflo can be toxic if it is not used as directed. Overdose of SK has been known to cause serious side effects, including anaphylactic shock and pulmonary edema.

Precaution

Before taking streptokinase, it is important to talk to your doctor about your medical history, as this drug may not be appropriate for everyone. Lupiflo should also be used with caution in people who have a history of depression and/or suicidal thoughts or actions.

Interaction

Lupiflo should not be used with other drugs that increase the risk of bleeding. These drugs include anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin, heparin), NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen), and certain antibiotics (e.g., quinolones, cephalosporins).

Disease Interaction

Lupiflo should be used with caution in people who have any of the following conditions, as these can increase the risk of bleeding complications: liver or kidney damage, bleeding disorders, anemia, stroke, or a brain or spinal cord tumor.

Drug Interaction

Lupiflo can interact with certain drugs and may cause severe reactions. If taken with some anticoagulants, NSAIDs, and antibiotics, the risk of bleeding can increase.

Food Interactions

Lupiflo is not known to interact with food or beverages.

Pregnancy Use

Lupiflo should be used with caution in pregnant women, as the safety of this drug during pregnancy has not been established.

Lactation Use

Lupiflo should be used with caution in breastfeeding mothers, as this drug can pass into breast milk and may cause side effects in the baby.

Acute Overdose

An overdose of streptokinase can lead to serious side effects, such as anaphylaxis and pulmonary edema. If an overdose is suspected, seek medical attention immediately.

Contraindication

Lupiflo should not be used in people who have a history of depression and/or suicidal thoughts or actions. Lupiflo should also not be used in people who have active bleeding disorders, anemias, or severe liver or kidney disease.

Use Direction

Lupiflo should be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The dosage and administration instructions must be followed precisely as indicated on the prescription label or as instructed by your doctor.

Storage Condition

Lupiflo should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and light. It should also be stored out of the reach of children and pets.

Volume Of Distribution

The volume of distribution of streptokinase is not known.

Half Life

The half-life of streptokinase is about 12 to 18 minutes.

Clearance

The clearance of streptokinase is approximately 70 mL/min/kg.

Here you find in details version of Lupiflo

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Lupiflo

What is streptokinase?

Lupiflo is a thrombolytic enzyme, which is a type of enzyme that helps dissolve blood clots. It is produced by certain bacteria such as Streptococcus and is used to treat certain medical conditions, including unstable angina and severe heart attack.

What are the uses of streptokinase?

Lupiflo is used to treat a type of heart attack (myocardial infarction) and unstable angina, a condition where the chest pain associated with a heart attack does not go away. Lupiflo may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

How does streptokinase work?

Lupiflo binds to a clot-forming substance called fibrinogen and helps dissolve blood clots that form in the arteries. It works by activating plasminogen, a naturally occurring substance in the body, to form plasmin which breaks down or dissolves the clot. This helps to restore normal blood flow to the heart.

Is streptokinase safe?

Yes, streptokinase is a safe and effective medication when used as directed. However, like all medications, there are some potential side effects that may occur such as bleeding, low blood pressure, and allergic reactions. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about taking streptokinase.

How is streptokinase taken?

Lupiflo is usually given as an injection directly into the bloodstream. Your doctor will determine your specific dosage and frequency of administration. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully when taking this medication.

What are the side effects of streptokinase?

Possible side effects of streptokinase include bleeding, low blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, and allergic reactions. Talk to your doctor if you experience any of these side effects or if you have any concerns about taking streptokinase.

Can streptokinase be used in children?

Lupiflo is not recommended for use in children. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about using streptokinase in children.

Is a prescription required to use streptokinase?

Yes, a prescription is required to use streptokinase. Talk to your doctor about the appropriate dosage and frequency of administration for your individual needs.

How quickly does streptokinase work?

Lupiflo usually begins to work within minutes. The effects of the medication can be seen within minutes to hours after administration.

How long does streptokinase stay active in the body?

The effects of streptokinase can last up to several hours. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about the duration of action of this medication.

Are there any dietary restrictions when taking streptokinase?

You should consult your doctor about any dietary restrictions when taking streptokinase. Generally speaking, it is usually recommended to limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol while taking this medication.

Is it safe to breastfeed while taking streptokinase?

It is not recommended to breastfeed while taking streptokinase. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about breastfeeding while taking this medication.

Who should not take streptokinase?

People who are allergic to streptokinase or any of its components should not take this medication. People with certain medical conditions such as kidney disease, hemophilia, or a bleeding disorder should also not take streptokinase.

What should I do if I miss a dose of streptokinase?

If you miss a dose of streptokinase, contact your doctor right away. Do not take a double dose of the medication to make up for the missed dose.

What should I avoid while taking streptokinase?

Avoid activities that may increase your risk of bleeding or injury while taking streptokinase. Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medications, over-the-counter drugs, or herbal supplements as they may interact with streptokinase.

What are the possible drug interactions with streptokinase?

Lupiflo may interact with other medications, over-the-counter drugs, or herbal supplements. Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medications before taking streptokinase to prevent any potential drug interactions.

Is streptokinase covered by insurance?

It depends on your insurance carrier and plan. Contact your insurance carrier to find out if your plan covers streptokinase.

What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to streptokinase?

If you experience an allergic reaction to streptokinase, contact your doctor right away. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include difficulty breathing, hives, rash, itching, swelling, or chest pain.

What are the storage instructions for streptokinase?

Lupiflo should be stored at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep the medication out of reach of children.

Can streptokinase be used to prevent heart attack?

No, streptokinase is not used to prevent heart attack. It is used to treat a type of heart attack and unstable angina.

Are there any food or drink interactions with streptokinase?

It is generally recommended to limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol while taking streptokinase. If you have any specific questions about food or drink interactions with streptokinase, talk to your doctor.

What should I do if I experience a serious side effect of streptokinase?

If you experience a serious side effect of streptokinase, contact your doctor right away. Serious side effects of streptokinase can include difficulty breathing, chest pain, bloody vomit, or severe headache.

Can I take streptokinase with other medications?

It depends on the medications you are taking. Lupiflo may interact with other medications, so it is important to inform your doctor if you are taking any other drugs before taking streptokinase.

What should I tell my doctor before taking streptokinase?

You should tell your doctor about all medications, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements you are taking before taking streptokinase. You should also inform your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any existing medical conditions.

How should I take streptokinase?

Lupiflo is usually given as an injection directly into the bloodstream. Your doctor will determine your specific dosage and frequency of administration. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully when taking this medication.

How long does it take for streptokinase to start working?

Lupiflo usually begins to work within minutes of administration. The effects of the drug can be seen within minutes up to several hours.

What should I do if I get an infection while taking streptokinase?

If you get an infection while taking streptokinase, contact your doctor right away. Lupiflo can increase your risk of developing infections.

How should I store streptokinase?

Lupiflo should be stored at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep the medication out of reach of children.

Are there any over-the-counter medications I should avoid while taking streptokinase?

It is important to inform your doctor of any over-the-counter medications you are taking before taking streptokinase. Some over-the-counter medications, such as aspirin, may interact with streptokinase.

What should I do if I experience excessive bleeding while taking streptokinase?

If you experience excessive bleeding while taking streptokinase, contact your doctor right away. Excessive bleeding is a potential side effect of streptokinase, so it is important to be aware of this and contact your doctor if it occurs.

Can I take aspirin while taking streptokinase?

It is generally not recommended to take aspirin while taking streptokinase. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about taking aspirin while taking this medication.

Can streptokinase be used to treat deep vein thrombosis?

No, streptokinase is not used to treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Talk to your doctor about other treatment options for DVT.

Can I take ibuprofen while taking streptokinase?

It is not recommended to take ibuprofen while taking streptokinase. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about taking ibuprofen while taking this medication.

What are the most common side effects of streptokinase?

The most common side effects of streptokinase include bleeding, low blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, and allergic reactions. Talk to your doctor if you experience any of these side effects or if you have any concerns about taking streptokinase.

Is streptokinase used to treat a stroke?

No, streptokinase is not used to treat a stroke. Talk to your doctor about other treatment options for stroke.

Is streptokinase available in generic form?

Yes, streptokinase is available in generic form. Talk to your pharmacist about the availability of generic streptokinase.

What are the warnings associated with streptokinase?

Lupiflo can increase your risk of bleeding, so it is important to be aware of this and contact your doctor if you experience any bleeding or signs of infection while taking the medication. Lupiflo should not be used in people who are allergic to any of its components or in people with certain medical conditions.