Fibrinolytics achieve their therapeutic action by:
A) interfering with the clotting cascade.
B) breaking up a thrombus that has formed.
C) blocking the conversion of plasminogen to plasmin.
D) decreasing platelet aggregation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Fibrinolytics break up a thrombus that has formed by activating plasminogen to plasmin, which then degrades fibrin and breaks up the clot. A is incorrect as fibrinolytics do not interfere with the clotting cascade, but instead activate it to break up clots. C is incorrect as fibrinolytics are used specifically to promote the conversion of plasminogen to plasmin. D is incorrect as fibrinolytics do not decrease platelet aggregation, but instead promote the breakdown of already formed clots.

Fibrinolytics Achieve Their Therapeutic Action By