DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.
Polypeptide derived from the leech Hirudo medicinalis officinalis, which is used for anticoagulation. Hirudin itself is only synthesized by leeches, whereas genetically engineered recombinant hirudin analogues, e.g. lepirudin, are used in pharmaceuticals.
Half-lifeThis section has been translated automatically.
4 hours
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Pharmacodynamics (Effect)This section has been translated automatically.
Direct inhibitor of the coagulation factor thrombin. Binds to its catalytic centres and prevents the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin. In addition, the coagulation factors V, VII and XIII are inactivated.
IndicationThis section has been translated automatically.
Among others, disseminated intravascular coagulation, heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, prophylaxis of leg vein thrombosis, heparin allergy.
Undesirable effectsThis section has been translated automatically.
Known are allergic ADRs, which are classified as type I and type IV sensitisations.
PreparationsThis section has been translated automatically.
S.u. Lepirudin.
Note(s)This section has been translated automatically.
In 1884, the British physiologist John Berry Haycraft discovered that leeches secrete a substance with a strong anticoagulant effect when sucking blood, which he called hirudin.
LiteratureThis section has been translated automatically.
- Lewis BE et al (2007) Direct thrombin inhibition during percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther 5: 57-68
Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer