Treatment of urokinase-related anaphylactoid reaction with intravenous famotidine.
OBJECTIVE
We describe our experience with an anaphylactoid reaction to urokinase and the treatment used. We also discuss the use of histamine H1- and H2-blockers in combination for the treatment of allergic anaphylactoid reactions.


METHODS
Case report.


METHODS
Hospital.


METHODS
Observation of a patient who had a pulmonary embolism.


METHODS
During the use of urokinase, in treatment of a pulmonary embolism, the patient developed an anaphylactoid reaction that did not respond to diphenhydramine or hydrocortisone. Famotidine was administered.


RESULTS
Abatement of urticaria and normalization of vital signs were obtained soon after famotidine was given. Completion of thrombolysis took place.


CONCLUSIONS
Further investigation of the use of H1- and H2-blocking agents in the presence of anaphylactoid reactions to thrombolytic agents should be performed. Consideration of intravenous famotidine for the treatment of anaphylactoid-type reactions to urokinase is suggested.
Vidovich
R R
RR
Critical Care Medicine, Akron General Medical Center, OH 44307.
Heiselman
D E
DE
Hudock
D
D
D000368:Aged; D000707:Anaphylaxis / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000188:drug therapy; D015738:Famotidine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D007275:Injections, Intravenous; D008297:Male; D011655:Pulmonary Embolism / Q000188:drug therapy; D014568:Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*
D015738:Famotidine; D014568:Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator