Brazil expands access to thrombolytic drugs for stroke and heart attack patients

Brazil has sanctioned Law No. 5.972/2023, which aims to expand patient access to thrombolytic medications within the Unified Health System (SUS). These drugs, used to dissolve blood clots, will be made more widely available in emergency units and Urgent Care Units (UPAs) to treat ischemic strokes and myocardial infarctions.

While the use of thrombolytics is already part of SUS protocols, procurement has previously been the responsibility of local managers. The new legislation seeks to improve availability and access across the public network. To support this, Health Minister Alexandre Padilha signed an ordinance creating a committee to monitor the implementation of care lines for time-dependent cerebrovascular and cardiovascular conditions.

Timely administration of these substances is critical, as the interval between symptom onset and treatment directly impacts patient outcomes and the risk of death or permanent disability. Brazil records between 300,000 and 400,000 heart attack cases annually, while SUS recorded 292,000 stroke-related consultations in 2025.