Desirudin is an inhibitor of thrombin, similar in structure to hirudin a naturally occurring anticoagulant peptide produced by salivary glands in leeches. This drug is administered to prevent deep vein thrombosis, some possible side effects include bleeding gums, blood collecting under the skin, coughing up blood, bruising and difficulty breathing and or swallowing. Desirudin binds to the active site of thrombin inhibiting the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin, due to this stopping the formation of a blood clot. This is usually administered subcutaneously, it is then metabolized and eliminated via the kidney. Due to the anticoagulant properties herbs and supplements with anticoagulant and antiplatelet activity should be avoided, this includes ginger, garlic, bilberry, danshen, piracetam and ginkgo biloba.

Desirudin Pathway References