Metalyse (Tenecteplase)

Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information

Prescription Required

Quick Facts

Generic Name
Tenecteplase
Drug Class
Tissue Plasminogen Activators (t-PA)
Used For
Treatment during early stages of a heart attack
How Taken
Administered as an injection by a healthcare professional

What Is Metalyse Used For?

Metalyse is a medication that contains tenecteplase, which is used in the early stages of a heart attack to dissolve blood clots that obstruct normal blood flow.

Primary Uses

Metalyse is primarily used to treat heart attacks by dissolving clots in the blood vessels.

How It Works

Metalyse works by breaking down blood clots that hinder blood flow, thereby restoring normal circulation.

Good to know: Metalyse is not addictive.

Continue Reading

Sign in to access the complete medication guide including dosage, side effects, warnings, and more.

How to Take Metalyse

Metalyse is given as an injection by a healthcare professional as soon as possible after heart attack symptoms appear.

Dosage Instructions

The recommended dose of Metalyse is based on body weight, typically ranging from 30 mg to 50 mg, administered as a single injection over approximately 10 seconds.

What If You Miss a Dose?

Since Metalyse is administered in a medical setting, missing a dose is unlikely. Treatment should occur as soon as symptoms arise.

Important: Never double dose Metalyse; only one injection should be given.

Available Tablet Strengths

40mg
40mg Tablet White to off-white, Powder in a vial • N/A
50mg
50mg Tablet White to off-white, Powder in a vial • N/A

Side Effects

Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.

Common Side Effects

These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:

  • Increased bleeding or bruising
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Bleeding or blood clots in the brain
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Low blood pressure
  • Irregular heartbeat

Impulse Control Issues

No information on impulse control issues was mentioned.

Important Warnings

There are several important warnings to consider before taking Metalyse.

Who Should Not Take Metalyse

Metalyse should not be given to individuals with a known allergy to tenecteplase or any of its ingredients, those with planned coronary interventions, or those under 18 years of age.

Medical Conditions to Discuss

Discuss any history of bleeding disorders, recent surgeries, strokes, high blood pressure, or any other significant medical conditions with your doctor.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding to discuss potential risks and benefits.

Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients, especially those over 75 years, may have an increased risk of side effects.

Drug Interactions

Certain medications may interact with Metalyse and affect its effectiveness.

Grapefruit interaction: No grapefruit interaction mentioned.

  • Aspirin
  • Heparin
  • Warfarin

Alcohol & Driving

Precautions regarding alcohol consumption and driving should be taken while on Metalyse.

Alcohol

Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while taking Metalyse.

Driving and Operating Machinery

Be cautious when driving or operating machinery until you know how Metalyse affects you.

Temperature Regulation

No specific temperature regulation warnings were mentioned.

Storage

Store Metalyse in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose Information

An overdose of Metalyse is unlikely as it is administered under medical supervision. If serious bleeding occurs, treatment will be stopped immediately, and appropriate measures will be taken to control the bleeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Metalyse works quickly to dissolve blood clots, typically administered as soon as possible after heart attack symptoms.

Metalyse is given as an injection and does not interact with food.

No, Metalyse is not considered addictive.

Metalyse is administered in a medical setting, so stopping treatment should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Consult your doctor regarding alcohol consumption while on Metalyse.

Weight gain is not mentioned as a side effect of Metalyse.

Elderly patients may have an increased risk of side effects and should be monitored closely.

Since Metalyse is given in a medical setting, missing a dose is unlikely. Treatment should occur as soon as symptoms arise.

Important Disclaimer

This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.

Create a free account to access the full medication guide.

Sign in to access your medication guides.