What is the Difference Between Streptokinase and Alteplase?

Streptokinase and alteplase are both thrombolytic drugs used to dissolve blood clots, but they have some differences in their origins, mechanisms of action, and efficacy. Here are the main differences between the two:

1. Origin: Streptokinase is produced by streptococci bacteria, while alteplase is a pharmacologic tissue plasminogen activator (tPA).
2. Mechanism of Action: Both drugs work by converting plasminogen to plasmin, the enzyme responsible for breaking down clots. However, streptokinase works with the body's own supply of plasminogen, while alteplase is a pharmacologic tPA that functions in the same way as tPA naturally occurring in the body.
3. Efficacy: Some studies have shown that alteplase is associated with earlier achievement of coronary perfusion and better outcomes in patients with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction compared to streptokinase. However, other studies have found no significant difference in the frequency of major adverse coronary events between the two drugs.
4. Fibrin-Selectivity: tPA, like alteplase, is considered superior to streptokinase for coronary artery recanalization and reduction of mortality due to the differential fibrin-selectivity of the two drugs.

In summary, streptokinase and alteplase are both thrombolytic drugs used to dissolve blood clots, but they differ in their origins, mechanisms of action, and efficacy. Alteplase is generally considered superior to streptokinase in terms of efficacy, but some studies have found no significant difference between the two drugs in certain outcomes.

Comparative Table: Streptokinase vs Alteplase

Here is a table comparing the differences between Streptokinase and Alteplase: