What medication class is used to dissolve clots in an acute myocardial infarction?

What medication class is used to dissolve clots in an acute myocardial infarction?

• A. Beta blockers
• B. Diuretics
• C. Thrombolytics
• D. Antiplatelet agents

Answer: (C)

Thrombolytics are used to dissolve clots in an acute myocardial infarction. They work by converting plasminogen to plasmin, an enzyme that breaks down fibrin and dissolves the clot that’s blocking blood flow to the heart. Restoring flow quickly limits heart muscle damage, especially when immediate mechanical reperfusion isn’t available. Examples include alteplase, tenecteplase, reteplase, and streptokinase. These drugs are most beneficial when given early after symptoms begin, but the benefit decreases as time passes, with safety concerns growing the longer you wait. The main risk is bleeding, including the potential for intracranial hemorrhage, so contraindications must be considered (such as active bleeding, recent major surgery, or known intracranial hemorrhage). In contrast, beta blockers, diuretics, and antiplatelet agents do not dissolve existing clots; they help manage heart workload, fluid status, or prevent further clot formation, rather than breaking down the clot itself.

Thrombolytics are used to dissolve clots in an acute myocardial infarction. They work by converting plasminogen to plasmin, an enzyme that breaks down fibrin and dissolves the clot that’s blocking blood flow to the heart. Restoring flow quickly limits heart muscle damage, especially when immediate mechanical reperfusion isn’t available. Examples include alteplase, tenecteplase, reteplase, and streptokinase. These drugs are most beneficial when given early after symptoms begin, but the benefit decreases as time passes, with safety concerns growing the longer you wait. The main risk is bleeding, including the potential for intracranial hemorrhage, so contraindications must be considered (such as active bleeding, recent major surgery, or known intracranial hemorrhage). In contrast, beta blockers, diuretics, and antiplatelet agents do not dissolve existing clots; they help manage heart workload, fluid status, or prevent further clot formation, rather than breaking down the clot itself.