American Society of Hirudotherapy

Dabigatran-idarucizumab pharmacokinetics-pharmacodynamics in sheep undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass

Research article published in Perfusion (2025)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Research reportDrug DevelopmentClinical TrialsSalivary PharmacologyEaton MP et al. · Perfusion, 2025

Abstract

BackgroundThe effect of the anticoagulant, dabigatran, and its antagonist, idarucizumab, on coagulation remains poorly quantified. There are few pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic data available to describe the interaction in humans or animals undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass.MethodsSix sheep were given intravenous dabigatran infusion while undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass. Blood samples were collected for thromboelastographic reaction time (R-time) and drug assay at 1. 5, 15, 30, 60, 90, and 120 min after starting dabigatran. Further reaction times were measured at 1 min, 5 min, 15 min, 60 min, 4 h and 24 h after initiation of idarucizumab infusion. Plasma dabigatran concentrations, the dabigatran- idarucizumab interaction and R-times were analyzed using an integrated pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic model with non-linear mixed effects.ResultsA 2-compartment model described dabigatran pharmacokinetics with a clearance (CL 0.0509 L/min/70 kg), intercompartment clearance (Q 0.229 L/min/70 kg), central volume of distribution (V1 3.89 L/70 kg), peripheral volume of distribution (V2 11.4 L/70 kg). The peripheral volume was 2.25 times larger during bypass. The effect compartment model estimates for an EMAX model using reaction time had an effect site concentration (Ce50 40.8 mg/L) eliciting half of the maximal effect (EMAX 180 min). A potency factor for the antagonist, idarucizumab (EA50 29.9 mg/L), moved the dabigatran response relationship to the left.ConclusionsDabigatran reversibly binds to the active site on the thrombin molecule, preventing activation of coagulation factors. Expansion of peripheral volume of distribution of dabigatran was observed during cardiopulmonary bypass, contributing to observed concentrations lower than predicted. A competitive interaction model adequately described dabigatran reversal by idarucizumab. These data and consequent parameter estimates inform future clinical studies in both animals and humans.

Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.

Publication typeJournal Article

Summary

BackgroundThe effect of the anticoagulant, dabigatran, and its antagonist, idarucizumab, on coagulation remains poorly quantified.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This study examined the pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic interaction between dabigatran and its antagonist idarucizumab in six sheep undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass, developing an integrated model to describe dabigatran concentrations, the dabigatran-idarucizumab interaction, and thromboelastographic reaction times. The abstract describes dabigatran as reversibly binding to the active site on the thrombin molecule but makes no mention of leeches, hirudin, hirudotherapy, or any leech-derived agent. Consequently, this study has no stated connection to the leech secretome or hirudotherapy, and its relevance to the American Society of Hirudotherapy is negligible beyond the general pharmacological topic of anticoagulation reversal.

Citation

Dabigatran-idarucizumab pharmacokinetics-pharmacodynamics in sheep undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass

Eaton MP et al. · Perfusion, 2025

Added to ASH library: May 27, 2026 · Site last updated: June 18, 2026

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.