Bleeding risk and safety profile related to the use of eptifibatide: a current review

Abstract

Introduction: Eptifibatide is a glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor that blocks the final common pathway of platelet aggregation. Its major adverse effect is bleeding. Balancing its safety and efficacy is paramount for its appropriate usage.

Areas covered: The development of eptifibatide and its mechanism of action are explored. Clinical trials evaluating its efficacy and safety in a variety of clinical settings, as well as newer dosing regimens, are discussed. Readers will be able to understand the bleeding risks of eptifibatide in specific patient populations.

Expert opinion: The risk of bleeding with eptifibatide needs to be weighed against the potential benefits. Understanding which patients are at higher risk of bleeding will help the clinician make appropriate decisions.

Keywords:

• bleeding
• clinical efficacy
• eptifibatide
• glycoproteins IIb/IIIa inhibitors