American Society of Hirudotherapy

Pharmacology of argatroban.

Research article published in Expert review of hematology (2010)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Narrative reviewClinical TrialsJeske et al. · Expert review of hematology, 2010

Abstract

Argatroban is a synthetic, small-molecule direct thrombin inhibitor that is approved in the USA, the EU and Japan for prophylaxis or treatment of thrombosis in patients with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), and for anticoagulation of HIT patients undergoing PCI. Argatroban binds reversibly to, and inhibits both soluble and clot-bound thrombin. Argatroban does not generate antibodies, is not susceptible to degradation by proteases and is cleared hepatically. It has a predictable anticoagulant effect and there is a good correlation between dose, plasma concentration and pharmacodynamic effect. Initial clinical studies suggest that further investigations to establish the use of argatroban in ischemic stroke, acute coronary syndrome, hemodialysis, blood oxygenation, off-pump cardiac surgery and other clinical indications are warranted.

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

Publication typeJournal ArticleReview
Indexed MeSH termsAcute Coronary SyndromeAntithrombinsArginineEuropean UnionFemaleHeparinHumansIsomerismJapanMalePeptidomimeticsPipecolic Acids

Summary

Pharmacology of argatroban.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This article discusses the pharmacology of argatroban, described in the abstract as a synthetic, small-molecule direct thrombin inhibitor approved in the USA, EU, and Japan for prophylaxis or treatment of thrombosis in patients with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) and for anticoagulation of HIT patients undergoing PCI. The abstract details argatroban's reversible binding to both soluble and clot-bound thrombin, its hepatic clearance, resistance to protease degradation, and predictable anticoagulant effect, and notes that initial clinical studies suggest further investigations in ischemic stroke, acute coronary syndrome, and other indications are warranted. The abstract contains no mention of leeches, hirudotherapy, hirudin, or the leech secretome, so its relevance to the American Society of Hirudotherapy is not supported by this article.

Citation

Pharmacology of argatroban.

Jeske et al. · Expert review of hematology, 2010

DOI

Added to ASH library: May 28, 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.