Bleeding risk and safety profile related to the use of eptifibatide: a current review.
BACKGROUND
Eptifibatide is a glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor that blocks the final common pathway of platelet aggregation. Its major adverse effect is bleeding. Balancing its safety and efficacy is paramount for its appropriate usage.


METHODS
The development of eptifibatide and its mechanism of action are explored. Clinical trials evaluating its efficacy and safety in a variety of clinical settings, as well as newer dosing regimens, are discussed. Readers will be able to understand the bleeding risks of eptifibatide in specific patient populations.


CONCLUSIONS
The risk of bleeding with eptifibatide needs to be weighed against the potential benefits. Understanding which patients are at higher risk of bleeding will help the clinician make appropriate decisions.
Tufts University School of Medicine, Baystate Medical Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Medicine, Springfield, MA 01199, USA.
Fadi
F
Saab
Costin
C
Ionescu
Marc J
MJ
Schweiger
D000818:Animals; D000077542:Eptifibatide; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006470:Hemorrhage / Q000139:chemically induced*; D006801:Humans; D018579:Patient Selection; D010455:Peptides / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D019039:Platelet Glycoprotein GPIIb-IIIa Complex / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors*; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012307:Risk Factors
D010455:Peptides; D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors; D019039:Platelet Glycoprotein GPIIb-IIIa Complex; D000077542:Eptifibatide