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Background: Pulmonary embolism is one of the leading causes of cardiopulmonary death. Submassive pulmonary embolism is a relatively novel diagnostic term in acute care settings. As of now, there continues to be research evaluating submassive PE treatment and which options reduce the overall morbidity and mortality. Objective: To evaluate current literature and research assessing the efficacy and risks of thrombolytic treatment for submassive pulmonary embolism (PE). Methods: A scientific literature review was conducted to identify large randomized control trials evaluating submassive pulmonary embolism (PE) management with thrombolytic therapy. Results: This review critically evaluated three studies whose objective was to determine the efficacy and safety of thrombolytic treatment for submassive PE by assessing rates of death, morbidity, hemodynamic decompensation, and complications due to bleeding. The studies found that thrombolytic therapy is better initially with lower death rates and adverse effects within the first 7 days and shorter hospital stays. Conversely, thrombolytic therapy did have higher rates of bleeding in patients. At long-term follow-up, death rates and persistent clinical symptoms were not significantly different in patients that received thrombolytics versus anticoagulation only. Conclusion: Thrombolytics provide better outcomes for patients initially after treatment, yet have the same outcomes as anticoagulation alone at long-term follow-up. Death rates and adverse effects are reduced initially with fibrinolytic treatment, while rates of bleeding are increased. Fibrinolytics are a practical therapy for patients with submassive PE and could reduce the risk of decompensation after initial diagnosis