We strongly urge people to seek medical attention as soon as possible if they believe they're having a stroke or heart attack. The sooner tPA or other appropriate treatment is begun, the better the chances for recovery.

What is tPA?

Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is a thrombolytic agent (clot-busting drug). It's approved for use in certain patients having a heart attack or stroke. The drug can dissolve blood clots, which cause most heart attacks and strokes. tPA is the only drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the acute (urgent) treatment of ischemic stroke.

How does tPA help people having a heart attack?

Studies have shown that tPA and other clot-dissolving agents can reduce the amount of damage to the heart muscle and save lives. However, to be effective, they must be given within a few hours after symptoms begin. Administering tPA or other clot-dissolving agents is complex and is done through an intravenous (IV) line in the arm by hospital personnel.

How does tPA help people having a stroke?

tPA has been shown to be effective in treating ischemic stroke. This kind of stroke is caused by blood clots that block blood flow to the brain.

In 1996 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of tPA to treat ischemic stroke in the first three hours after the start of symptoms. This makes it very important for people who think they're having a stroke to seek help immediately. If given promptly, tPA can significantly reduce the effects of stroke and reduce permanent disability. tPA can only be given to a person within the first three hours after the start of stroke symptoms.

tPA or other thrombolytics can reduce disability from a heart attack or stroke, but there is also a higher risk of bleeding.

Related AHA publications:

• After Your Heart Attack (also in Spanish)
• Warning Signs of Stroke (Quick and Easy Reading) (also in Spanish)
• Know the Facts...Get the Stats

Related AHA publications:
Stroke