aprotinin
Pronunciation: a-PRO-ti-nin
Antifibrinolytic agent historically used to reduce bleeding during cardiac surgery but withdrawn due to safety concerns.
Full Definition
Aprotinin is a serine protease inhibitor that was extensively used during cardiac surgery to reduce perioperative bleeding by inhibiting fibrinolysis and preserving platelet function. The drug worked by blocking plasmin, kallikrein, and other proteases involved in the coagulation cascade and inflammatory response to cardiopulmonary bypass. However, aprotinin was withdrawn from most markets in 2007 following studies showing increased risks of renal failure, myocardial infarction, and mortality compared to alternative antifibrinolytic agents like tranexamic acid and aminocaproic acid.
Usage
Usage note: Reference primarily for historical context; note current alternatives in contemporary documentation.
In Context
- "Historical protocols included aprotinin for bleeding reduction, but current practice favors tranexamic acid." — Clinical practice evolution review
- "The aprotinin controversy led to widespread adoption of alternative antifibrinolytic strategies." — Medical literature review