Urokinase
Urokinase is a thrombolytic enzyme medication used to break down dangerous blood clots in the body. It works by activating plasminogen to plasmin, which then degrades fibrin strands that hold clots together. This medication is primarily used in hospital settings for acute, life-threatening clot-related emergencies.
Urokinase is a clot-dissolving enzyme used to treat serious blood clot emergencies like pulmonary embolism.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- B01AD04
- RxNorm
- 11055
- Generic
- Urokinase
- Class
- atc-b01
- Brands
- Kinlytic
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of acute pulmonary embolism, acute deep vein thrombosis, and clearing occluded intravenous catheters. It may also be used for clotted arteriovenous shunts in dialysis patients.
Urokinase is a serine protease enzyme that directly converts plasminogen to plasmin. Plasmin then breaks down fibrin clots into smaller fragments, restoring blood flow through the affected vessel.
Must be administered in a hospital setting with appropriate monitoring. Contraindicated in patients with active bleeding, recent surgery, or history of hemorrhagic stroke. May cause bleeding complications and allergic reactions. Pregnancy category C.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy