Effect of sulfinpyrazone upon antithrombin III and platelet factor 4 in chronic renal failure

Despite the suppressive effects of uremia upon platelet function, patients with chronic renal failure are at increased risk for thrombotic diseases. This increased risk is linked to lowered concentrations of antithrombin III (AT III) and increased platelet release in vivo, as indicated by increased plasma concentrations of platelet factor 4 (PF4). Sulfinpyrazone, a drug capable of reducing the frequency of thrombotic events in uremic patients, allows return toward normal of the AT III while reducing to normal the plasma concentration of PF4. Thus, suppression of platelet function by sulfinpyrazone appears to reduce in vivo clotting, and thus reduces consumption of AT III.