Roche's (RHHBY.US) innovative therapy has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke in adults.

Genentech, a subsidiary of Roche (RHHBY.US), announced that the U.S. FDA has approved TNKase (tenecteplase) for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in adults. TNKase is a tissue plasminogen activator that dissolves blood clots, administered via a five-second intravenous push. This is faster and more convenient than Activase (also developed by Roche), which requires a 60-minute intravenous infusion after a five-second intravenous push. TNKase is the first stroke drug approved by the FDA in nearly 30 years. The most common side effects are bleeding and allergic reactions. Studies have shown that TNKase is as safe and effective as Activase in patients with acute ischemic stroke.