What is Cathflo?
Cathflo is a brand name for alteplase (a tissue plasminogen activator, or tPA), a medicine used to restore flow in clogged catheters. It is commonly used with implanted ports and other venous access devices when a catheter becomes occluded and cannot be used for infusion or blood draws.
What is Cathflo used for?
Cathflo is used to “declot” or restore patency in blocked central venous access devices, including ports and catheters. It works by breaking down the fibrin clot that is blocking the catheter lumen.
How does Cathflo work?
Alteplase in Cathflo converts plasminogen to plasmin, which degrades fibrin—the main structural component of blood clots—so the catheter can open and flow can resume.
How is Cathflo given?
Cathflo is typically instilled directly into the lumen of the occluded catheter (an “intraluminal” dwell). The catheter is then left to sit for a set period and reassessed. If blood return or infusion flow does not return, clinicians may follow the product’s instructions for reassessment and additional steps.
What side effects or risks are associated with Cathflo?
Because Cathflo works on clot breakdown, the key risks relate to bleeding. Side effects can include bleeding at the catheter site or elsewhere, and patients may be assessed for factors that raise bleeding risk. Clinicians also consider whether the occlusion is truly due to a clot versus mechanical problems, since Cathflo targets fibrin clots.
Can Cathflo be used if the catheter is blocked for reasons other than a clot?
Often, Cathflo is used when occlusion is suspected to be thrombotic (fibrin/clot-related). If the catheter issue is mechanical (for example, a kink, fracture, or dislodgement), catheter flow may not improve with alteplase, and other interventions may be needed.
Does Cathflo have alternatives?
Yes. Hospitals commonly use other declotting strategies for catheter occlusion depending on cause and protocol, such as different thrombolytic or anticoagulant approaches, and—if catheter function cannot be restored—catheter replacement. The best alternative depends on device type and patient bleeding risk.
Is there patent or market exclusivity information for Cathflo?
DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent and market exclusivity information for many drug products, including older and branded products such as alteplase products in specific formulations/indications. You can check current patent status and related filings here: https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/