Although intravenous thrombolysis with alteplase remains the primary treatment for acute ischemic stroke, tenecteplase has shown potential advantages over alteplase. Animal studies have demonstrated the favorable pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of tenecteplase. Moreover, it is easier to administer. Clinical trials have demonstrated that tenecteplase is not inferior to alteplase and may even be superior in cases of acute ischemic stroke with large vessel occlusion. Current evidence supports the time and cost benefits of tenecteplase, suggesting that it could potentially replace alteplase as the main option for thrombolytic therapy, especially in patients with large vessel occlusion.
Keywords: alteplase; ischemic stroke; tenecteplase; thrombolysis.