Name:Aprotinin

Synonyms: Trypsin Inhibitor

Molecular Formula: C₂₈₄H₄₃₂N₈₄O₇₉S₇

Molecular Weight: 6511.83

CAS Registry Number: 9087-70-1

EINECS: 232-994-9

 

Aprotinin, also known as bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibitor, BPTI (Trasylol, Bayer) is a protein, that is used as medication administered by injection to reduce bleeding during complex surgery, such as heart and liver surgery. Its main effect is the slowing down of fibrinolysis, the process that leads to the breakdown of blood clots. The aim in its use is to decrease the need for blood transfusions during surgery, as well as end-organ damage due to hypotension (low blood pressure) as a result of marked blood loss. The drug was temporarily withdrawn worldwide in 2007 after studies suggested that its use increased the risk of complications or death; this was confirmed by follow-up studies. Trasylol was entirely and permanently withdrawn in May 2008 (except for very restricted research use).