Study shows Metalyse/TNKase (Boehringer) benefits patients with Pulmonary Embolism

A new study shows that in patients with Acute Pulmonary Embolism, Metalyse/TNKase (tenecteplase), from Boehringer, prevents death or circulatory collapse and is particularly effective for patients aged below 75 years. The prospective, randomized, double blind PEITHO study enrolled 1,006 patients with confirmed APE. Patients were assigned heparin plus tenecteplase or heparin plus placebo. The primary endpoint was death from any cause or hemodynamic collapse after 7 days.

The primary endpoint was reduced by 56% in patients assigned heparin plus tenecteplase compared with heparin plus placebo. Hemodynamic collapse occurred in 1.6% of patients assigned heparin plus tenecteplase vs. 5% assigned heparin plus placebo. Death rates were low and similar in both groups. However, major bleeding was increased with tenecteplase: 6.3% vs. 1.5%. Ten hemorrhagic strokes were reported in the heparin plus tenecteplase group compared with one in the heparin plus placebo group. Patients aged less than 75 years gained the most benefit from tenecteplase and had fewer hemorrhagic strokes. Data was presented at the American College of Cardiology Scientific Sessions.