Cathflo (alteplase) carries a risk of serious adverse events, which have been reported in clinical trials. The most significant risks identified include sepsis, gastrointestinal bleeding, and venous thrombosis.
Understanding the Risks of Cathflo
When considering any medical treatment, understanding its potential risks is crucial. Cathflo Activase is used to restore function to central venous access devices (CVADs) that have become occluded by a thrombus. While effective for its intended purpose, like all medications, it is associated with specific side effects and risks.
Based on clinical trial data, the most serious adverse events reported after treatment with Cathflo are:
- Sepsis: A severe and potentially life-threatening response to an infection. It occurs when chemicals released into the bloodstream to fight an infection trigger inflammatory responses throughout the body.
- Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Bleeding that occurs anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract, from the esophagus to the rectum. This can range from mild to severe and may require medical intervention.
- Venous Thrombosis: The formation of a blood clot (thrombus) within a vein. This clot can block blood flow and, if it breaks loose, can travel to other parts of the body, potentially leading to serious complications like pulmonary embolism.
Important Considerations
Patients receiving Cathflo should be closely monitored by healthcare professionals for any signs or symptoms of these serious conditions. Prompt recognition and management of these adverse events are critical to ensuring patient safety.
For more detailed information on the safety profile of Cathflo Activase, refer to official product information or consult with a healthcare provider. You can also find additional safety details on the manufacturer's website: Cathflo® Activase® (alteplase) Safety Profile
