Antithrombotics and Haemostatic Peptides
6 compounds in this family, each with its recorded mechanism, routes of administration, safety notes and references to published literature.
- BecaplerminBecaplermin is a topical gel containing recombinant human platelet‑derived growth factor‑BB (rhPDGF‑BB). It is approved for the treatment of neuropathic diabetic foot ulcers and has been used off‑label for ulcerated infantile hemangiomas. The gel is applied to the wound in conjunction with standard ulcer care, aiming to accelerate healing and reduce complications such as amputation.
- BivalirudinBivalirudin is a synthetic 20‑amino‑acid peptide that directly inhibits thrombin. It is approved for use as an anticoagulant during percutaneous coronary interventions and is employed off‑label in settings such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and heparin‑induced thrombocytopenia. By blocking both the active site and fibrin‑binding exosite of thrombin, it prevents clot formation while offering a predictable anticoagulant effect.
- DesirudinDesirudin is a recombinant hirudin analog that directly inhibits thrombin. It is approved for prescription use as a subcutaneous anticoagulant, particularly when heparin is unsuitable, such as in heparin‑induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) or other thromboembolic conditions.
- EfegatranEfegatran (also known as efegatran sulfate or LY294468) is an investigational small‑peptide direct thrombin inhibitor developed for intravenous use. It has been studied as an adjunct to thrombolytic therapy in acute myocardial infarction and as a substitute for heparin in unstable angina, aiming to provide more predictable anticoagulation by inhibiting both free and clot‑bound thrombin.
- LepirudinLepirudin is a recombinant analogue of hirudin, a peptide that directly inhibits thrombin. It belongs to the antithrombotic peptide family and has been used intravenously to treat heparin‑induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) and related thrombotic complications. Although once marketed under the name Refludan, it has been withdrawn from commercial availability but remains referenced in clinical guidelines as a non‑heparin anticoagulant option for patients with normal renal function.
- THR-184THR-184 is an investigational synthetic peptide that mimics bone morphogenetic protein‑7 (BMP‑7) activity and antagonises transforming growth factor‑β (TGF‑β) signaling. It is being studied primarily as a renal‑protective agent to prevent or lessen acute kidney injury (AKI), especially in patients undergoing high‑risk cardiovascular surgery.