What are thrombolytic (clot-busting) drugs?
Thrombolytic drugs prevent or limit heart muscle damage by dissolving any clots that are blocking a coronary artery. Once the clot is dissolved, the artery opens up and the flow of oxygen and nutrients is restored. It’s important to note that thrombolytic drugs must be given immediately after heart attack symptoms begin. The sooner the drugs are introduced, the more good they do and the greater the chances are of a full recovery. To be most effective, they need to be given within 1 hour of the start of heart attack symptoms.
