Lepirudin

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Lepirudin sequence

Lepirudin is a pharmaceutical drug that acts as an anticoagulant, specifically functioning as a direct thrombin inhibitor. It is used in the prevention and treatment of thrombotic events.

Brand and Generic Names

• Brand Name: Refludan
• Generic Name: Lepirudin rDNA for injection

Chemical Composition

Lepirudin is a recombinant version of hirudin, which is naturally found in the saliva of the medicinal leech (Hirudo medicinalis). The recombinant version is derived from yeast cells. Its structure is almost identical to the natural hirudin except for two modifications:

• Substitution of leucine for isoleucine at the N-terminal end
• Absence of a sulfate group on the tyrosine at position 63

Medical Use

Lepirudin is primarily employed as an anticoagulant in cases where patients exhibit heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. In such cases, traditional anticoagulants such as heparin (unfractionated or low-molecular-weight) may be contraindicated.

Market Withdrawal

In 2012, Bayer, the pharmaceutical company producing Lepirudin, announced its decision to cease its production. As of May 31, 2012, Lepirudin (Refludan) was no longer available in the market.