DrugInfoSys

Hirudin

Drug #1465

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.

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Primary Characteristics

It is of Natural/Synthetic origin.

Molecular Weight: 6964 · pKa: 4.4 · Solubility in Water: High · Non-proprietary name: Hirudin.

Molecular structure of Hirudin

Pharmacokinetics

Distribution: Hirudin has a volume of distribution is 0.27 l/kg.

Elimination: plasma half-life is 1-2 hr.

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Indications

Hirudin is primarily indicated in conditions like Deep vein thrombosis, Hemodialysis, Heparin induced thrombocytopenia, Thrombolytic therapy in acute myocardial infarction, Unstable angina.

Contraindications

Hirudin is contraindicated in conditions like Bleeding diathesis, Hypersensitivity.

Dosage

Hirudin's dosage details are as follows:

DoseSingle DoseFrequencyRouteInstructions
Adult Dosage
15 mg15 mgEvery 12hS/Cthromboprophylasis
Paediatric Dosage (20kg)
0.1 mg/kg/hour0.1 mg/kg/hourEvery 2hBolosFor myocardial infarction.
Neonatal Dosage (3kg)
No data.

Drug Interactions

Unknown1 interaction

Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Side Effects

Hirudin produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Hemorrhage . Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.

Hirudin is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Acute urticaria, Allergic reactions.

Warnings / Precautions

Doses of hirudin should be reduced in patient with renal impairment. It must be administered parentrally and is monitored by the PTT.

Interference in Pathology

Hirudin may interfere in the diagnosis of Elevates thrombin and partial thrombin time and interferes with other coagulation test.

Available Brands

None recorded.

Storage Conditions

Hirudin should be stored .

Drug Classification

  1. 1.12.5 — Anti-thrombotic drugs and myocardial infarction