Hirudin and Derivatives B

The polypeptide hirudin from the saliva of the European medicinal leech inhibits clotting of the leech s blood meal by blockade of the active center of thrombin. This action is independent of AT III and thus also occurs in patients with AT III deficiency. Lepirudin and desrudin are yeast-derived recombinant analogues. They can be used in patients with HIT II. 

Ximelagatran is a modified thrombin antagonist suitable for oral use. 

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