The main use of Aprotinin is to reduce bleeding during complex surgeries such as heart surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass, thereby minimising the need for blood transfusion. It belongs to the group of medications known as protease inhibitors.
Secondary uses of Aprotinin include off-label usage in other major surgical procedures like liver transplantation where surgical bleeding needs to be minimised.
Nausea
Vomiting
Chest pain or tightness
A feeling of warmth or flushing
Aprotinin is a proteinaceous protease inhibitor.
It works by inhibiting serine proteases, such as trypsin, chymotrypsin, and plasmin. It prevents the breakdown of fibrin and fibrinogen by inhibiting the activity of plasmin, thereby reducing bleeding during surgical procedures. Aprotinin also stabilizes clot formation and helps maintain hemostasis by limiting the action of various enzymes involved in coagulation and fibrinolysis.
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Aprotinin is available as an injectable solution.
The route of administration for Aprotinin is intravenous, meaning it is administered directly into the bloodstream.
Aprotinin is approved for use in adults, particularly those undergoing complex surgeries such as heart surgery.
Aprotinin is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to any of its components.
It should not be used by individuals with severe renal impairment or renal failure.
Patients allergic to bovine (cow) products should not receive this medication.
Aprotinin can interact with anticoagulants (such as warfarin, heparin), other antifibrinolytics (such as tranexamic acid, epsilon-aminocaproic acid), and thrombolytics (such as streptokinase, alteplase). It may also interact with certain antibiotics (such as penicillin, cephalosporins) and medications affecting blood pressure (such as atenolol).
An overdose of Aprotinin may lead to excessive blood clotting, which can result in complications such as stroke or heart attack. Immediate medical attention should be sought if an overdose is suspected.
If a dose of this medicine is missed during scheduled surgical procedures, the medical team should be alerted immediately to address the dosing schedule appropriately.
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.
If experiencing nausea or vomiting, try taking the medication with a small amount of food or water if advised so by your doctor.
For feelings of warmth or flushing, resting in a cool environment may provide relief.
Aprotinin does not directly impact the ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. However, considering it is used during surgical procedures under general anaesthesia, operating machinery or driving immediately following surgery is not advisable.
The safety of Aprotinin during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. It is crucial to consult your doctor before receiving Aprotinin if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Individuals with a history of thrombotic events should use Aprotinin with caution due to an increased risk of further thrombotic complications.
Patients previously exposed to Aprotinin should also exercise caution due to the potential for hypersensitivity reactions upon re-exposure.
Maintain adequate hydration before and after surgery, as hydration status can impact blood pressure and kidney function.
Follow pre-surgery instructions regarding fasting or specific dietary preparations as advised by your surgical team.
After surgery, adhere to recommended dietary guidelines to support recovery, such as high-protein meals that aid in tissue repair.
Avoiding strenuous activities and following physical rehabilitation advice can help manage the condition necessitating Aprotinin use effectively.
Frequently asked questions
No, Aprotinin is not a steroid. It is a protein derived from bovine lung tissue and functions as a broad-spectrum protease inhibitor.
There is no direct evidence suggesting that Aprotinin affects sleep. If you experience any sleep difficulties, consult your doctor.
There is no documented evidence to suggest that Aprotinin impacts fertility. If you have concerns, consult your doctor.
No specific diet restrictions are required while taking Aprotinin. However, always follow your doctor's advice regarding diet while on medication.
Aprotinin is administered during surgery and is not meant for daily use. Usage should strictly follow the guidance of the surgeon or anaesthetist present during the operation.
Aprotinin begins to work as soon as it is administered intravenously. However, its full effect will depend on individual patient factors and the type of surgery being performed.
Aprotinin is administered during surgery; therefore, there isn't a 'best time' to take it in the same way as oral medications. Your healthcare team will administer it at the optimal time during your surgical procedure.
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