Is the use of unfractionated heparin in acute coronary syndrome outmoded?

Elaine Chiquette, Robert Chilton

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Because of the key role of thrombin in the pathogenesis of acute coronary syndrome (ACS), the appropriate selection of antithrombotic therapy is important. Unfractionated herapin (UFH) has been the agent of choice for decades. Unfortunately, UFH has a number of limitations related to its pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties. Low molecular weight herapins (LMWHs) are attractive alternatives to UFH for several reasons, including predictable anticoagulation and ease of administration. Two LMWhs (dalteparin and enoxaparin) have been approved as alternatives to UFH in patients presenting with unstable angina and non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Randomized, controlled trials, in addition to open-label series, indicate that LMWH can safety be the agent of choice with or without glycoprotein llb/llla in the medical and upstream management of patients with ACS. Although the data are not definitive, several trials suggest that given intravenously, enoxaparin is safe as the sole antithrombotic agent in the catheterization laboratory.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)94-100
Number of pages7
JournalCurrent atherosclerosis reports
Volume6
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 2004

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Is the use of unfractionated heparin in acute coronary syndrome outmoded?'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this