Cathflo, the 2-mg vial of t-PA — a fibrin-specific therapy*
Cathflo in action
Produced by recombinant DNA technology, Cathflo is a fibrin-specific t-PA.* It is the only thrombolytic agent marketed and FDA-approved for restoration of function to CVADs. For convenience, Cathflo is available in a single-use, 2-mg vial.
Like naturally forming human t-PA, Cathflo acts specifically on fibrin-rich clots in an occluded catheter.
- Cathflo causes the conversion of plasminogen to plasmin
- Plasmin dissolves fibrin in a clot, which results in thrombotic breakdown
- Any residual debris can be aspirated from the catheter, and central venous access is restored
- With Cathflo, there is limited potential systemic exposure because it works by dwelling in the catheter in direct contact with the clot
- Circulating plasma levels of Cathflo are not expected to reach concentrations that produce systemic pharmacological responses, and this is partly due to its short half-life
Indication
Cathflo Activase (Alteplase) is indicated for the restoration of function to central venous access devices (CVADs) as assessed by the ability to withdraw blood.
Safety Information
Cathflo Activase should not be administered to patients with known hypersensitivity to Alteplase or any component of the formulation.
In clinical trials, the most serious adverse events reported after treatment were sepsis, gastrointestinal bleeding, and venous thrombosis.
Please click here for full prescribing information.
See the Cathflo mechanism of action
Stephens LC, Haire WD, Kotulak GD. Are clinical signs accurate indicators of the cause of central venous catheter occlusion? J Parent Enter Nutr. 1995;19:75-79.
