Eptifibatide Human

Eptifibatide works by reversibly binding to the platelet receptor glycoprotein IIb/IIIa, which is crucial for platelet aggregation . By blocking this receptor, eptifibatide prevents the binding of fibrinogen, von Willebrand factor, and other adhesive ligands, thereby inhibiting platelet aggregation in a dose- and concentration-dependent manner .

Eptifibatide is primarily used to reduce the risk of acute cardiac ischemic events, such as death and myocardial infarction, in patients with unstable angina or non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) . It is often administered in conjunction with aspirin or clopidogrel and heparin (either low molecular weight or unfractionated) . Additionally, it is used as an adjunct to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to prevent complications during and after the procedure .

Eptifibatide has a relatively short half-life of approximately 2.5 hours and is primarily excreted through the kidneys . It has a bioavailability of around 25% when administered intravenously .

Eptifibatide was developed by Millennium Pharmaceuticals and is marketed under the brand name Integrilin . It has gained broad acceptance as the third inhibitor of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa, following the specific antibody abciximab and the non-peptide tirofiban .