<p>There is an increased risk of haemorrhage in patients simultaneously or previously receiving anticoagulants (such as Heparin or Coumarin derivatives) or drugs which inhibit platelet formation or function (e.g., Platelet aggregation inhibitors, Dextrans, Phenylbutazone, Dipyridamole, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). The effect of Heparin can be neutralized rapidly by administration of Protamine Sulphate. The Thrombin time (TT) should not be more than twice the normal control value before thrombolytic therapy is started. In the case of prior treatment with coumarin derivatives, the International Normalized Ratio (INR) must be less than 1.3 before starting Streptokinase infusion.<br />
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<strong>Combination of Streptokinase with Aspirin for treatment of Myocardial infarction</strong>: Study showed a significant benefit to patients treated with these two agents after acute myocardial infarction. Mortality (both short and longer term) was reduced in these patients to a greater extent than in those treated with either agent alone.<br />
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Unless contraindicated, the concomitant use of Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA, Aspirin), starting prior to Streptokinase infusion and continued for one month thereafter may be instituted at the discretion of the physician. The benefit of combination therapy should therefore be weighed against the risk of increased haemorrhage.<br />
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<strong>Anticoagulation treatment following Streptokinase</strong>: Following high dose (1.5 million IU), short term treatment with Streptokinase, for acute myocardial infarction, the use of subsequent anticoagulant treatment has not yet been shown to be of unequivocal benefit. Therefore, in this situation, the use of anticoagulants should be decided by the physician.</p>