Streptokinase shortage raises concerns for cardiac patients across Punjab

A critical shortage of the life-saving heart attack injection Streptokinase has emerged in the public sector hospitals across Punjab, including the Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC), raising serious concerns about the treatment of emergency cardiac patients, 24NewsHD TV reported on Friday. 

According to sources, stocks of Streptokinase, a clot-dissolving drug used in the emergency treatment of heart attack patients, have been completely exhausted in several public hospitals.

The unavailability of the injection has put the lives of heart attack patients at risk, as timely administration of the medicine is considered crucial for restoring blood flow and reducing the risk of death or permanent heart damage.

Despite the growing shortage, sources claimed that the province's two health departments have yet to take notice of the non-availability of the essential medicine, leaving hospitals without a vital drug required to manage cardiac emergencies.

Pakistan Medical Association Lahore office bearers have urged the authorities to ensure the immediate procurement and supply of Streptokinase to government hospitals to prevent avoidable loss of life and ensure uninterrupted emergency cardiac care.

Reporter: Zahid Chaudhry