Pharmacology
Summary
Coagulation is a multifaceted process initiated by both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways that converge at factor Xa in the common pathway. This cascade ultimately culminates in the transformation of the inactive fibrinogen into its active form, fibrin, which stabilizes the platelet plug, forming a robust clot. Central to this cascade is thrombin, a pivotal enzyme responsible for the conversion of fibrinogen into fibrin. Another essential element in this sequence is factor X. Once activated to factor Xa, it pairs with factor Va to aid in the transformation of the inactive zymogen prothrombin to its active form, thrombin.
Among the agents that regulate coagulation are anticoagulants such as heparin, low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), and fondaparinux. Unfractionated heparin, distinguished by its large molecular structure, binds to antithrombin III. This interaction predominantly targets thrombin (factor IIa) and factor Xa, effectively inhibiting the clotting cascade. To ensure therapeutic efficacy and safety of unfractionated heparin treatment, the activated partial thromboplastin time (PTT) is routinely monitored.
Lesson Outline
Don't stop here!
Get access to 133 more Pharmacology lessons & 13 more medical school learning courses with one subscription!
FAQs
Both heparin and LMWH are anticoagulants, but they have distinct molecular weights and mechanisms of action. Heparin, being a larger molecule, can inhibit both thrombin (factor IIa) and factor Xa in the clotting cascade. LMWH, with its smaller size, primarily inhibits factor Xa. This size distinction grants LMWH a longer half-life, eliminating the need for the consistent monitoring that regular heparin demands.
Fondaparinux binds antithrombin II with higher specificity than LMWH, resulting in more specific inhibition of factor Xa. By curbing factor Xa, it inhibits the transformation of prothrombin to thrombin, which reduces clot formation. Its singular focus on factor Xa, compared to other anticoagulants, lowers the potential bleeding risk.
Heparin, a widely-used anticoagulant, can lead to a range of side effects. Its primary function, inhibiting clotting, often results in bleeding, ranging from minor bruises to severe internal hemorrhages. Some patients may develop heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), a paradoxical condition where heparin boosts clot risk due to an immune response. Prolonged heparin therapy can also induce osteoporosis, leading to fragile bones. Additionally, heparin can affect the adrenal glands, causing hypoaldosteronism and its subsequent risk of hyperkalemia, a potentially serious elevation of blood potassium levels. It's essential for patients to be regularly monitored and communicate any unusual symptoms to healthcare providers.
Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is an adverse and paradoxical reaction to heparin treatment. When heparin pairs up with platelet factor 4, it results in an emergence of antibodies that activate platelets in the presence of heparin. This leads to an immune assault, dwindling platelet numbers and paradoxically heightened clot formation chances. If not treated properly, HIT can escalate to severe complications, including arterial and venous thrombosis.
