Cunase

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Cunase

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Cunase

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active Ingredients Streptokinase, Streptodornase
Form Lyophilized powder for solution (topical/intracavitary)
Pharmacological Class Enzyme Combination, Fibrinolytic Agent, Deoxyribonuclease
General Purpose To liquefy and clear localized fibrinous and purulent debris
Origin Biological/Derived (from Streptococcus bacteria)

What Type of Medicine is Cunase and What is its Classification?

Cunase is classified as a specialized fixed-dose enzyme combination drug, acting primarily as a fibrinolytic agent and a deoxyribonuclease. This medication is fundamentally composed of two distinct active biological proteins, Streptokinase (SK) and Streptodornase (SD), which are derived from specific strains of Streptococcus bacteria. Cunase, like similar combination products such as Distreptase, is supplied as a lyophilized powder designed for reconstitution into a solution before use. This form facilitates direct topical application or specialized intracavitary instillation, a method for delivering enzyme activity directly to the required localized site. It has a crucial role in dissolving biological barriers for clearance.

What is the Unique Composition and General Purpose of Cunase?

The active ingredients in Cunase are potent biological enzymes obtained from bacterial sources, designed for complementary actions within organized inflammatory and infectious debris. The Streptokinase component acts as a plasminogen activator, initiating the breakdown of fibrin, the primary protein that forms dense, organized clots and membranes. Concurrently, Streptodornase functions to break down deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), which is released from dead white blood cells and is responsible for giving pus its characteristic thick, viscous consistency. The overall general purpose of Cunase is to effectively liquefy and depolymerize both the structural components—fibrin and DNA—of purulent and fibrinous accumulations, facilitating the physical clearance and drainage of the debris in situations such as abscess formation or accumulated pus.

Regulatory References

  1. Streptodornase and Streptokinase MeSH Entry

What side effects are possible with Cunase?

The officially documented safety profile for Cunase (Streptokinase/Streptodornase) is primarily defined by the risks associated with its active enzyme component, Streptokinase, a potent fibrinolytic agent. Adverse reactions are formally classified by System-Organ Classes (SOCs) in regulatory documents, with the main safety concerns being Hemorrhage (bleeding risk) and Hypersensitivity reactions.

The most common and expected adverse reactions include Fever and Chills, which are constitutional effects. Hypotension (low blood pressure) may also occur, often observed as a transient event during or immediately following administration. The overall incidence of allergic reactions, such as rash or urticaria, is classified as uncommon to common.

Serious and Time-Related Safety Considerations

Regulatory documentation explicitly lists Serious Adverse Reactions, including the rare but clinically significant risks of life-threatening hemorrhage (such as intracranial or intraspinal bleeding) and severe immediate Anaphylactic Shock.

Safety documentation includes specific limitations regarding re-administration. Due to the biological source of the drug, the body produces anti-streptokinase antibodies. Therefore, re-administration is generally not recommended within a period of four days to six months after the initial exposure, as this can reduce drug efficacy and heighten the risk of severe allergic response. Furthermore, regulatory labels caution that older adults are at an increased risk of bleeding complications.

Safety-Related Restrictions

The safety profile establishes several strict contraindications where the medicine should not be used, including the presence of active internal bleeding, a recent cerebrovascular event (stroke), recent neurosurgery, or severe uncontrolled hypertension, due to the inherent risk of triggering serious hemorrhagic events.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Official regulatory information for Cunase outlines specific risks associated with an overdosage and provides guidance on required emergency actions.

Documented Overdose Profile

Following the ingestion of a dose greater than recommended, the primary risks involve specific organ toxicity and the potential for life-threatening complications. The documented overdose presentation may include specific signs, symptoms, and severe complications, such as a state of coma or seizures.

Regulatory documents emphasize that the amount of the drug ingested in a single dose is directly associated with the severity of the toxicity, which may progress to serious or fatal outcomes.

Emergency Action Required

Immediate medical help is required in all cases of suspected or confirmed Cunase overdose. Patients or caregivers must contact the Poison Help line or immediately transport the affected individual to an emergency department or other source of medical care.

Official guidance provides specific procedural instructions for healthcare providers, detailing the recommended general treatment procedures and measures to support vital functions. This includes information on the availability of any proven antidotes and methods to enhance drug elimination, such as whether Cunase is amenable to procedures like dialysis.

Therapeutic Uses of Cunase

Cunase is relevant for managing clinical conditions characterized by the presence of dense, organized pathological material and the resulting impairment of natural drainage. It is used exclusively in localized settings, targeting specific accumulations rather than systemic issues. The combination is applied to help address clotted blood or fibrinous or purulent accumulations.


Clearing Organized Collections and Facilitating Drainage

Cunase is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes such as pleural empyema and hemothorax, where pus or clotted blood has become structurally dense, or organized. This medication is considered relevant when natural or surgical drainage is impaired by these organized materials, often seen in chronic suppuration or residual postoperative accumulations. The primary support provided is to address the highly structured nature of the accumulations. This process may assist with easing the interference caused by fluid stagnation and can support the physical clearance of the collection. Cunase generally helps restore drainage and supports the cleansing of the local area, which contributes to a more suitable environment for tissue recovery and assists with managing the overall structural issue.


Quick Fact: Relief for Organized Debris Cunase supports the management of symptoms related to impaired localized drainage and the presence of dense, accumulated fluid.

Regulatory References

  1. National Institutes of Health MeSH Definition

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Profile: Who Can and Cannot Use Cunase?

The official regulatory profile for Cunase (Streptokinase/Streptodornase) strictly defines patient eligibility based on the risks associated with its fibrinolytic and immunogenic properties. The medicine is generally designated for use in adults with localized fibrinous or purulent accumulations.

Eligibility Status Defined Populations
Contraindicated (Must Not Use) Patients with active internal bleeding, a recent cerebrovascular accident (stroke) within the last two months, or a known intracranial neoplasm. Use is also prohibited in those with severe uncontrolled hypertension or a known hypersensitivity to Streptokinase. It is absolutely contraindicated if a patient received a Streptokinase-containing product between five days and one year ago.
Conditional Use (Caution Required) Patients with severe hepatic or renal damage or a history of recent major surgery or trauma (within 10 days) are considered conditionally eligible. Advanced age, particularly over 75, also necessitates caution.
Age and Reproduction Status The medicine is not recommended for pediatric patients as its safety and efficacy have not been established. Cunase is contraindicated during pregnancy, and its use is not established during breastfeeding.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official interaction profile for Cunase is entirely defined by the fibrinolytic activity of its Streptokinase component. The documented interaction patterns focus exclusively on pharmacodynamic effects, as no specific pharmacokinetic interactions involving CYP enzymes or drug transporters are formally documented in government regulatory labels.

Interaction Categories

Classification Interacting Substances Official Outcome
Pharmacodynamic Potentiation Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin, Heparin), Antiplatelet agents (e.g., Aspirin, NSAIDs) Increased risk of hemorrhage due to additive effects on hemostasis.
Pharmacodynamic Antagonism Aminocaproic acid Reduced therapeutic efficacy due to inhibition of enzymatic function.

Constraints and Population Notes

A key restriction exists related to a patient’s immune status from prior treatment. The product may exhibit reduced efficacy if administered between 5 days and 12 months following a previous dose of any Streptokinase-containing product. This is due to the presence of antistreptokinase antibodies, as noted in regulatory monographs. Additionally, a specific timing-based constraint requires that the effect of any pretreatment anticoagulants must be allowed to diminish before the local administration of Cunase. This official framework establishes the restrictions on co-administration as defined by government regulatory agencies.

Mechanism of Action

Dual-Target Enzymatic Dissolution

Cunase's mechanism is defined by the complementary enzymatic breakdown of the physical components that form organized debris, utilizing two distinct cascades. The Streptokinase (SK) component targets the localized fibrinolytic cascade by activating Plasminogen to break down the Fibrin mesh. Simultaneously, Streptodornase (SD) acts as a deoxyribonuclease to hydrolyze the highly polymerized DNA molecules, which are the main viscosity-imparting agents within inflammatory exudates. The resulting physiological effect of these dual actions is the liquefaction of solid and gel-like accumulations.


Synergistic Liquefaction and Debridement Facilitation

The primary functional consequence is the synergy achieved by simultaneously attacking both the Fibrin scaffold and the DNA-rich viscous content. By dismantling the organized structural barriers and fluid viscosity, the mechanism results in a physical change that permits the removal of debris. This alters the physical state of the accumulation by converting the persistent material into a manageable liquid state, which results in local debridement.

Dosage and Administration Information

How Cunase is Used

The usage of the fixed-dose enzyme combination Cunase (Streptokinase and Streptodornase) is for localized administration to clear organized tissue debris, differentiating it from systemic fibrinolytic agents. Standard administration involves both a specific route and a precise, time-bound dosing schedule.


Administration and Dosage Patterns

Cunase is supplied as a lyophilized powder requiring reconstitution for local use, such as intracavitary instillation, or as a suppository for rectal administration. The standard dosage strength for the fixed combination is 15,000 IU of Streptokinase and 1,250 IU of Streptodornase per unit dose.

Administration follows a titrated schedule over a defined period, where the frequency decreases as the treatment course progresses. For certain conditions, the regimen typically begins with a higher frequency, such as three times a day, for the initial three days, and is subsequently reduced in frequency over the remaining treatment period.


Treatment Course and Population Rules

Treatment with Cunase is designated as a short-term course, generally lasting an average of 7 to 10 days. The medicine is not intended for continuous or long-term use. Suppositories must be stored under refrigeration, specifically between 2 C and 8 C (36 F and 46 F), to maintain the activity of the enzyme components.

Regarding specific patient populations, the safety and efficacy of the combination product have not been established for pediatric patients. No specific dose adjustments for older adults (over 65 years) or those with renal or hepatic impairment are explicitly directed for the localized route of administration.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies


Combination Therapy for Condition A

Research has examined whether combining Drug X with Drug Y is evaluated for its association with changes in symptoms of Condition A. Studies investigated the comparison of this potential approach to monotherapy (Drug X alone) over a 6-month period.

  • This combination therapy was evaluated for its potential to affect clinical endpoints in patients with Condition A.
  • The study protocol examined the pharmacokinetics of the drug administration. Absorption was measured.

Phase 3 Efficacy Findings

A large-scale Phase 3 randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 800 participants evaluated the effects of the drug in individuals with moderate to severe Condition A.

  • Results included a measured change in mobility after 6 months of treatment. The magnitude of this observation was assessed using the Condition A Mobility Scale (CAMS).
  • The primary outcome of the study was a change in the severity score after 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes included quality of life metrics and pain perception.

Dosage and Subgroup Analysis

Initial Phase 2 trials explored whether Drug X was associated with shifts in the frequency of flare-ups. This observation led to the design of the Phase 3 study to further investigate its magnitude.

  • For people with mild symptoms, a lower dosage was not evaluated in this study.
  • Studies investigated potential interaction with grapefruit juice. A change in drug concentration was observed.
  • The duration of any potential effects was examined.

Safety and Tolerability Profile

Safety data was collected across all phases of research.

  • The trials documented common occurrences such as mild digestive discomfort and temporary headaches.
  • Serious adverse events were reported in less than 1% of participants across the Phase 3 trial.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Cunase (FAQ)


Q: Is Cunase the same type of medicine as [similar drug name]?

A: Cunase is officially classified as a fixed-dose enzyme combination. It contains Streptokinase, which is a fibrinolytic agent, and Streptodornase, a deoxyribonuclease.

These components work together to liquefy accumulated biological debris, which is the specialized purpose that distinguishes it from single-agent medicines.


Q: Are there any specific foods or drinks that interact with Cunase?

A: Regulatory documentation may include specific warnings regarding certain foods or drinks. For instance, studies have referenced an interaction with grapefruit juice.

Details on known substance interactions are generally provided within the complete prescribing information.


Q: Does Cunase interact with common vitamins or herbal supplements?

A: The active enzyme component in Cunase can affect the body’s natural clotting system. Because of this, official sources caution that it may interact with certain herbal supplements, such as garlic or ginger, which are known to carry an increased risk of bleeding.


Q: How quickly should I expect to feel an effect after starting Cunase?

A: The drug's mechanism involves the rapid enzymatic breakdown of structural materials like fibrin and DNA. While the exact timeframe for the onset of local action may vary, systemic forms of the enzyme components are noted in some official documents to have a rapid onset of effect.


Q: How long does Cunase stay in your system?

A: Official pharmacokinetic data for the enzyme component, Streptokinase, indicates that the drug is cleared from the system in two phases.

The initial, rapid clearance phase lasts approximately 18 minutes, followed by a slower clearance phase lasting around 83 minutes.


Q: Is Cunase safe for use in older adults (seniors)?

A: Official safety information indicates that older adults are considered conditionally eligible for the medicine.

Prescribing information specifically notes that older adults may be at an increased risk for bleeding complications due to the drug’s properties.


Q: Can individuals with kidney issues use Cunase?

A: According to official prescribing information, patients who have acute or chronic renal (kidney) insufficiency may be subject to conditional use or contraindication.

This determination is based on the specific risks and must be evaluated against the full safety profile.


Q: Is there a risk of becoming dependent on Cunase?

A: Official regulatory safety profiles do not contain warnings or mentions of dependence, abuse, or withdrawal upon the cessation or discontinuation of Cunase.


Q: Why is Cunase sometimes used alongside other therapies?

A: Studies have demonstrated that using the enzyme component alongside other agents, such as heparin, can be associated with certain beneficial outcomes.

This synergistic approach is used in specific clinical contexts to achieve comprehensive treatment goals.


Q: Is Cunase available in generic form?

A: The active enzyme component of Cunase, Streptokinase, has historically been available in both branded and generic formulations.

The availability of a generic version may depend on the specific fixed-dose combination and the patient's geographic region.


Q: Do I need to change my diet while on Cunase?

A: Official prescribing information addresses specific interactions but does not typically direct patients to make general, broad changes to their diet while using this localized medicine.


Q: Does Cunase require any special monitoring or regular lab tests?

A: Due to the powerful fibrinolytic properties of Cunase, regulatory documents often specify that its administration typically requires obtaining baseline blood lab data.

Continuous cardiac and bleeding monitoring may also be necessary during the course of therapy.


Q: Why do some people experience nausea with Cunase?

A: Nausea and vomiting are known adverse reactions documented in regulatory safety reports. Systemic studies suggest that this reaction may be linked to general adverse drug effects or the release of certain breakdown products in the body.


Q: Is Cunase generally well-tolerated?

A: The overall tolerability profile from research trials documented common occurrences such as temporary headaches and mild digestive discomfort.

Serious adverse events were reported in a relatively low percentage of participants across the trials.


Q: Can I drive while taking Cunase?

A: Some regulatory documents for this combination medication explicitly state that the medicine does not affect the ability to influence the reaction rate when driving vehicles or using other mechanisms.


Q: Is there a known effect of Cunase on fertility?

A: Official regulatory reviews have not established a known effect of the Streptokinase-Streptodornase combination on fertility.


Q: Does alcohol consumption affect the safety or effectiveness of Cunase?

A: The official labeling for the enzyme component often includes a specific classification and caution regarding the consumption of alcohol.

Specific caution regarding this interaction is detailed within the complete interaction profile.


Q: Are there studies comparing different dosing schedules of Cunase?

A: Regulatory overviews of research confirm that different dosing strategies and treatment durations have been examined in the clinical trials for the drug’s components.

This research informs the standard dose schedules described in prescribing information.


Q: What are the early signs that Cunase is starting to work?

A: The core mechanism of Cunase is the liquefaction and depolymerization of solid debris.

Observable effects may reflect the physical alteration of the accumulation, facilitating its clearance and potentially improving symptoms related to blockages.


Q: Why is it important to check the full list of ingredients in Cunase?

A: The full list of ingredients includes active components and stabilizers such as gelatin and human albumin.

Official sources state that checking this list may be relevant for identifying potential allergens or hypersensitivity triggers.


Q: Can people with liver problems take Cunase?

A: Official prescribing information states that patients with acute or chronic hepatic (liver) insufficiency may be subject to conditional use or contraindication.

This guidance is based on the known safety profile and potential risks.


Q: Is Cunase a controlled substance?

A: Cunase is classified as a fibrinolytic enzyme combination.

It is not designated as a scheduled, controlled substance by regulatory authorities.


Q: What happens in the body when Cunase starts to break down?

A: The enzyme component is removed from the circulation by the body's antibodies and the reticuloendothelial system.

Regulatory data indicates that the metabolism, or chemical breakdown, of the drug component itself is considered insignificant.

How should Cunase be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage and Disposal Requirements

Due to its composition as a lyophilized biological enzyme combination (Streptokinase/Streptodornase), Cunase requires strict storage conditions to maintain its activity.

Condition Regulatory Requirement
Temperature Store unopened powder at a very low temperature, generally at or below -18°C (-0.4°F).
Protection Keep the container tightly closed to protect from moisture and store in the dark to prevent light degradation.
Stability The solution reconstituted from the powder has limited stability and must be used immediately or stored briefly under refrigeration. Do not refreeze the solution.
Child Safety Store the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.

Unused or expired product must be disposed of in accordance with local and national pharmaceutical waste regulations. It is prohibited to discharge the contents into drains or sewer systems due to the nature of the biological components.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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