A Time and “-plase” for Everything: Updated Management of Acute Ischemic Stroke

This course reviews Alteplase and Tenecteplase. It can be taken by anyone interested in the topic but offers continuing education (CE) credit for United States healthcare practitioners in pharmacy. Alteplase and tenecteplase are critical medications used in health systems that require rapid decision-making by healthcare teams. Due to their high risk of life-threatening side effects, patient selection must be meticulous. Pharmacists must be prepared to review orders for appropriateness consistently. Recent literature updates have revealed changes in the timing and dosing schemes for alteplase in treating acute ischemic stroke. Additionally, the 2019 Stroke guidelines introduced a new section on tenecteplase, likely unfamiliar to many pharmacists outside of neurology. Endovascular thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke is an increasingly important topic in neurology, and pharmacists should have a fundamental understanding of the process and timing of this procedure to effectively select pharmacotherapy. This knowledge-based activity will outline key principles related to the mechanisms of action of fibrinolytic therapy with alteplase and tenecteplase, ensuring participants understand the disease state’s background and our pharmacotherapy goals. A thorough literature review will be provided to understand the efficacy and timing of these agents. Special focus will be given to tenecteplase, as it may be new to many pharmacists, with relevant literature being relatively recent. The course will also cover endovascular procedures to help pharmacists visualize patient selection processes and the outcomes associated with this therapy. Multiple choice questions will be integrated throughout to engage participants and assess their understanding. Join us to enhance your expertise in acute ischemic stroke pharmacotherapy, stay updated with the latest guidelines, and improve your ability to make informed decisions in critical situations.