Hirudin (natural specific inhibitor of thrombin) is one of the most active of the many active ingredients extracted from leeches and their salivary glands, and is a small molecule protein consisting of 65-66 amino acids. It has a strong inhibitory effect on thrombin and is a natural specific inhibitor of thrombin.
Hirudin has a strong inhibitory effect on coagulation and anti-thrombosis, and is used clinically to treat and prevent the formation of various thrombi. It can be used in the treatment of acute cardiovascular diseases after thrombolysis, prevention of coronary re-occlusion, treatment of arteriovenous thrombotic diseases, disseminated intravascular coagulation and anticoagulation treatment in dialysis.
It also has the effect of preventing the activation of coagulation factors catalyzed by thrombin and the further bruising phenomenon of platelet reaction, and also inhibits thrombin-induced proliferation of fibroblasts and stimulation of endothelial cells by thrombin. Compared with anticoagulants such as heparin, it has the advantages of small dosage and does not cause bleeding.
If hirudin (natural specific inhibitor of thrombin) is required, it is recommended that it be used under medical supervision.