Tissue Plasminogen Activator (t-PA) for Stroke
What To Think About
Tissue plasminogen activator should be given right away after the first symptoms of stroke start. The person and/or family members need to provide as much information as possible about what symptoms the person had and when they began. This helps determine whether giving t-PA would be helpful. If it has been too long since the symptoms started, the medicine is unlikely to benefit the person. Other strict criteria also must be met before the medicine can be given.
Checkups
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
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| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: January 7, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Reference Richard D. Zorowitz, MD - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation |
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