Small-molecule direct antithrombins: argatroban

Argatroban represents the first antithrombin agent that was approved for clinical use. It belongs to the peptidomimetic (arginomimetic) group of drugs with multiple pharmacological properties. Unlike the other antithrombin drugs, such as hirudins and hirulogs, argatroban is a reversible antithrombin agent and therefore exhibits a considerably different pharmacological profile. Although argatroban is considered to be a member of the antithrombin family, its mechanisms of action include several other processes that have not been explored fully to date. These include the inhibition of non-thrombin serine proteases, a direct effect on endothelial cells and the vasculature (generation of nitric oxide), and downregulation of various inflammatory and thrombotic cytokines. Due to its lower molecular weight, argatroban is capable of passing through endovascular and cellular barriers and may, therefore, be more effective than heparins and hirudins in the antithrombotic management of microvascular disorders. Argatroban is an effective anticoagulant agent that produces a stronger anticoagulant effect than heparins and hirudins at equivalent anticoagulant levels, as measured by the activated clotting time (ACT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT). At comparable ACT (300 seconds) and APTT (75-90 seconds), argatroban produces stronger inhibition of thrombin generation, as measured by in-vitro assays. Argatroban does not generate any neutralizing or non-neutralizing antibodies, and has predictable antithrombotic effects in different patients. In addition to the inhibition of thrombogenesis, argatroban also facilitates blood flow, inhibition of platelet activation and endothelial cell stimulation, mechanisms that are not necessarily related to thrombin inhibition. Despite these pharmacological advantages, additional clinical investigations are needed to validate the use of argatroban in clinical indications other than those for which it is currently approved, namely, heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and support of percutaneous coronary angioplasty.