Criteria for drug usage review of thrombolytics in acute myocardial infarction.

Thrombolytic drugs are now the mainstay of the management of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Although their use is associated with reduced mortality, significant adverse effects can occur, especially if they are used inappropriately. Drug usage review of this group of drugs provides a measure of the appropriateness of their use. The development of criteria against which the use of these drugs can be compared allows the collection of qualitative and quantitative data on their use. Those criteria identified during this process include: evidence for, and accuracy of, diagnosis of AMI; when, where and how to administer the drug; what drug to use, and at what dose. Identification of potential adverse effects, measures of treatment success and the role of adjunctive therapy may also be included as part of a drug usage evaluation process.