Half life of alteplase is ?
**Core Concept**
The half-life of alteplase, a recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), is a critical pharmacokinetic parameter that determines its duration of action and clinical efficacy in treating acute ischemic strokes and pulmonary embolism.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Alteplase is a serine protease that activates plasminogen to plasmin, leading to fibrinolysis and clot dissolution. Its half-life is approximately 5-6 minutes, which allows for a rapid onset of action and a short duration of effect, minimizing the risk of bleeding complications. The short half-life of alteplase necessitates its administration via intravenous infusion over a specific period, typically 60 minutes.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect as it does not accurately reflect the half-life of alteplase.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect as it is not a recognized value for the half-life of alteplase.
* **Option D:** This option is incorrect as it is significantly longer than the actual half-life of alteplase.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential to note that the half-life of alteplase is relatively short, which necessitates careful patient monitoring and prompt initiation of anticoagulation to prevent re-occlusion of the occluded vessel.
**Correct Answer:** C. 5 minutes