One molecule of lepirudin binds to one molecule of thrombin, blocking the thrombogenic activity of thrombin.
Systemic clearance is dependent on glomerular filtration rate.
About half is excreted in the urine as unchanged drug and other fragments. Dose must be adjusted based on C CR . Treat heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and associated thromboembolic disease to prevent further complications. Hypersensitivity to hirudins. Formation of antihirudin antibodies or serious hepatic injury may increase the anticoagulant effect.