desirudin

Desirudin is a recombinant protein-based anticoagulant that acts as a direct, highly selective inhibitor of human thrombin. Structurally similar to hirudin (a natural anticoagulant from the medicinal leech), it binds directly and reversibly to both free and clot-associated thrombin, inhibiting fibrin formation, activation of coagulation factors V, VII, and XIII, and thrombin-induced platelet aggregation. Desirudin is primarily indicated for the prevention of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients undergoing elective hip or knee replacement surgery. It is administered subcutaneously and its use reduces the risk of potentially fatal pulmonary embolism following orthopedic procedures[1][2][3][6]. The drug is produced using recombinant DNA technology in yeast cells[5][6].

Brand names

IprivaskRevasc

Other names

desirudin