American Society of Hirudotherapy

Hirullin P18

Synthetic hirudin variant with improved oral pharmacokinetics — preclinical anticoagulant.

Preclinical / mechanisticLast updated: 2026-05-26 · Reviewed by ASH Editorial Board
Molecular weight of Hirullin P18 compared with other characterized leech-derived compoundsHementerin80 kDaHementin80 kDaHementin-Like Protein (HLP-1)80 kDaLeech Collagenase70 kDaHaemadipsa yanyuanensis Progr…70 kDaLeech Apyrase67 kDaCalin65 kDaHyaluronidase60 kDaAntithrombin III binding prot…58 kDaCollagenolytic Fibrinolysin55 kDaLeech Thrombospondin-Like Pro…50 kDaHirullin P182.3 kDa
Molecular weight (kilodaltons) of Hirullin P18 (highlighted) alongside other characterized leech salivary compounds. Smaller proteins/peptides generally diffuse and act faster.

Mechanistic Evidence Box

Preclinical / mechanistic
Page type
Compound profile
Evidence type
Synthetic hirudin variant with improved oral pharmacokinetics — preclinical anticoagulant.
Evidence level
In vitro
Drug vs leech
Synthetic analog
Safety domains
Bleeding

Clinical translation limit

Hirullin P18 is a preclinical synthetic peptide; its in vitro thrombin inhibition does NOT establish clinical efficacy. No FDA-approved derivative exists. Distinct from FDA-approved synthetic hirudin analog bivalirudin.

Molecular Profile

Category
Anticoagulant
Evidence tier
Preclinical
Molecular weight
2,300 Da
Source species
Hirudo medicinalis (synthetic derivative)
Hirullin P18 molecular structure

Biological Targets

  • thrombin

External Resources

    Related Anticoagulant Compounds

    This website provides educational information and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Medicinal leech therapy carries clinically meaningful risks and should be performed only by qualified clinicians under institutionally approved protocols. FDA 510(k) clearance for medicinal leeches is limited to specific indications; investigational and off-label discussions are labeled accordingly. For patient-specific guidance, consult a qualified healthcare provider.