[Effect of the new Soviet thrombolytic preparation streptodecase on the fibrinolysis system]

The usefulness of the thrombolytic therapy in diseases of the cardio-vascular system, complicated or caused by thromboses is beyond doubt. However, the existing medicinal forms of fibrinolytic enzymes possess a number of disadvantages which limit their use. To enhance the efficacy of thrombolytic therapy a streptokinase, named streptodekase, has been created and immobilized on a water-soluble matrix. Streptodekase was tested on the haemocoagulation system in 7 patients with thrombosis of the femoral artery or the branches of the pulmonary artery. It was seen that streptodekase causes a considerable and rapid increase of fibrinolysis without unwanted disorders in the blood coagulation and other side effects. The convenience in use and simplicity (the therapeutic dose of 3,000,000 units is administered in a single injection, intravenously and immediately), the safety and high specific activity permit one to think that the drug may be widely used.