Hirudin (Hirudin)
Overview of Hirudin
Hirudin is a protein consists of 65-amino-acid, that is a direct inhibitor of thrombin. It has been extracted from leeches and this form is used in various topical preparations. Whereas, the recombinant form includes Lepirudin and Desirudin. Lepirudin is used as an anticoaggulant in patients with heparin induced thrombocytopenia, who require parenteral antithrombotic treatment. Rcombinant forms may also be used in myocardial infarction (MI) and unstable angina.
Indication of Hirudin
Hirudin is primarily indicated in conditions like Deep vein thrombosis, Hemodialysis, Heparin induced thrombocytopenia, Thrombolytic therapy in acute myocardial infarction, Unstable angina.
Contraindication of Hirudin
Hirudin is contraindicated in conditions like Bleeding diathesis,Hypersensitivity.
Side Effects of Hirudin
Hirudin produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Hemorrhage. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Hirudin therapy.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Hirudin are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Allergic reactions, Acute urticaria.
Precautions of Hirudin
Doses of hirudin should be reduced in patient with renal impairment. It must be administered parentrally and is monitored by the PTT.