In case of pulmonary embolism, right ventricle hypokinesia, and decreased output, which drug therapy is most helpful?
High-Yield Explanation
Anticoagulation with Heparin has long been the standard treatment for normotensive patients with pulmonary embolism. By preventing clot propagation, heparin allows endogenous fibrinolysis to occur, with eventual resolution of thrombo-emboli. However in the absence of an absolute contraindication, patients with pulmonary embolism-induced hypotension or shock are usually treated with thrombolytic agents. The three thrombolytic agents used in treatment of pulmonary embolism are streptokinase, urokinase and recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator(-PA).