American Society of Hirudotherapy

[Anticoagulation]

Review published in Medizinische Klinik, Intensivmedizin und Notfallmedizin (2013)

Last Updated: June 18, 2026Reviewed by: ASH Editorial Board
Research article — evidence reviewArticle reference
Evidence: Narrative reviewDrug DevelopmentPtzsch B · Medizinische Klinik, Intensivmedizin und Notfallmedizin, 2013

Abstract

Anticoagulant drugs belong to the group of antithrombotic agents and are successfully used in the prophylaxis and treatment of thromboembolic disorders. The use of anticoagulants in the prevention of deep venous thrombosis has significantly lowered the risk of venous thrombosis and fatal pulmonary embolisms even in high-risk situations such as orthopedic surgery. Anticoagulants play a central role in the treatment of acute venous thrombosis and in the prevention of recurrent events. Long-term anticoagulation therapy with orally active anticoagulants significantly reduces the risk of thromboembolic complications in patients showing cardiac arrhythmias. Whereas a few years ago heparins and vitamin K antagonists were the dominant anticoagulants, today a wide range of anticoagulants with improved pharmacological profiles are available. It remains an open question whether these new anticoagulants will improve the efficacy, safety, and acceptance of anticoagulant treatment approaches.

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

Publication typeJournal ArticleReview
Indexed MeSH termsAdministration, OralAnticoagulantsAntithrombinsArginineArrhythmias, CardiacBlood Coagulation TestsFactor Xa InhibitorsHemorrhageHeparinHeparinoidsHirudinsHumans

Summary

Anticoagulant drugs belong to the group of antithrombotic agents and are successfully used in the prophylaxis and treatment of thromboembolic disorders.

Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy

This review article provides an overview of anticoagulant drugs used in the prophylaxis and treatment of thromboembolic disorders, including their roles in deep venous thrombosis prevention, acute venous thrombosis treatment, and long-term management of patients with cardiac arrhythmias. It notes the evolution from heparins and vitamin K antagonists to newer anticoagulants with improved pharmacological profiles, while raising open questions about whether these advances improve efficacy, safety, and acceptance. The review has indirect, conceptual relevance to hirudotherapy because hirudin—the active anticoagulant in leech saliva—belongs to the broader antithrombotic agent family discussed. However, the abstract does not specifically mention leeches, hirudin, or leech-derived compounds, so the connection is general background rather than substantive.

Citation

[Anticoagulation]

Ptzsch B · Medizinische Klinik, Intensivmedizin und Notfallmedizin, 2013

DOI

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

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