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Comprehensive Analysis of Procoagulant Platelets Exhibiting Features of Necrosis, Apoptosis and Platelet Activation
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Use of Prothrombin Complex Concentrate in Oral Anticoagulant-Associated Major Bleeding
Jack G Lukas1, Michael J Reichert, G Morgan Jones
1Department of Pharmacy, Methodist University Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee (Drs Lukas, Reichert, and Jones); and College of Pharmacy (Drs Lukas, Reichert, and Jones) and College of Medicine (Dr Jones), University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis.
Critical Care Nursing Quarterly
|February 25, 2022
Summary
Severe bleeding from anticoagulants like warfarin requires rapid reversal. Prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) is the most common global agent for this, and this review covers its evidence and administration.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Hematology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Severe bleeding is a major risk of warfarin and direct oral anticoagulants.
- Rapid reversal of anticoagulation is critical for life-threatening bleeds.
- Prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) is the primary global antidote.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evidence supporting PCC use for anticoagulant-associated bleeding.
- To provide practical guidance on PCC administration in specific patient populations.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on PCC for warfarin and DOAC reversal.
- Analysis of clinical evidence regarding efficacy and safety.
- Discussion of patient-specific factors influencing PCC administration.
Main Results:
- PCC effectively and rapidly reverses anticoagulation effects.
- Evidence supports PCC use in managing major bleeding events.
- Administration considerations vary based on patient factors and anticoagulant type.
Conclusions:
- PCC is a vital tool for managing severe bleeding caused by anticoagulants.
- Understanding evidence and patient-specific factors optimizes PCC therapy.
- Further research may refine PCC use in diverse clinical scenarios.
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