Bivalirudin is an anticoagulant medication used to prevent blood clots during certain medical procedures, such as coronary angioplasty or in patients with unstable angina. It is a direct thrombin inhibitor, meaning it works by directly blocking thrombin, an enzyme that plays a crucial role in blood clot formation. Bivalirudin is typically administered intravenously in a hospital setting and is preferred in certain patients over other anticoagulants due to its predictable effects and lower risk of bleeding complications. Bivalirudin is often used in combination with aspirin to enhance its effectiveness in preventing clot formation.
