Review of t-PA Use Since FDA Approval

A new look at why t-PA remains underused despite multiple studies demonstrating that early thrombolysis is safe and effective.

Tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) remains significantly underused in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke, despite FDA approval 13 years ago. A new progress report addresses obstacles to treatment and research advances that have led to loosened restrictions on t-PA use and provides a renewed discussion of the efficacy and safety of thrombolysis.

The restricted time window for thrombolysis remains the primary obstacle to treatment with t-PA. The author summarizes the key trials in which the restrictions were established, particularly emphasizing the original National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) trial, which established the 3-hour thrombolytic window, and the recent European Cooperative Acute Stroke Study (ECASS)…

Reviewing Authors

Jason Mackey, MD

Joseph Broderick, MD

Review of t-PA Use Since FDA Approval

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Reviewing Authors