Vorapaxar sulfate

Vorapaxar sulfate is a thrombin receptor antagonist used in the treatment of thrombosis. It is marketed under the brand name Zontivity by Merck & Co..

Pharmacology

Vorapaxar sulfate works by inhibiting the action of thrombin, a protein involved in blood clotting. It specifically targets the protease-activated receptor 1 (PAR-1), which is a thrombin receptor found on platelets. By blocking this receptor, vorapaxar sulfate prevents thrombin from activating platelets and initiating the clotting process.

Clinical Use

Vorapaxar sulfate is used to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, cardiovascular death, and need for procedures to restore the blood flow to the heart in patients with a previous heart attack or with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). It is usually given in combination with aspirin or clopidogrel.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of vorapaxar sulfate include bleeding and bruising. Serious side effects may include severe bleeding, anemia, and thrombocytopenia.

Contraindications

Vorapaxar sulfate is contraindicated in patients with a history of stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), or intracranial hemorrhage. It is also contraindicated in patients with active pathological bleeding.

Drug Interactions

Vorapaxar sulfate may interact with other anticoagulants, increasing the risk of bleeding. It may also interact with certain types of antidepressants, increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome.

See Also

• Thrombosis
• Anticoagulant
• Thrombin
• Platelet