Seminars in thrombosis and hemostasis
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Semin. Thromb. Hemost. · Jun 2004
Review Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical TrialRecombinant platelet factor 4 for heparin neutralization.
Protamine sulfate has been used for many years to reverse the effects of unfractionated heparin, but it can cause hemodynamic changes and other serious side effects. Platelet factor 4 (PF4) is a naturally occurring protein synthesized in megakaryocytes and eventually stored in the alpha granules of platelets for later release. Although the complete physiologic role of PF4 is unknown, it is highly effective for the neutralization of heparin anticoagulation. ⋯ Serial measurements of rPF4 levels showed a monophasic elimination pattern with a serum half-life of 25.5 +/- 13.5 minutes that was independent of dose administered. A randomized and blinded trial comparing rPF4 to protamine confirmed the safety and effectiveness of rPF4. Although rPF4 was initially being evaluated as a clinical alternative to protamine, it is not currently being developed for general clinical use.