Coagulation as a process is interpreted as a mechanism for reducing excessive blood loss through the generation of a gel-like clot local to the site of injury. The process involves the activation, adhesion (see Integrins), degranulation and aggregation of platelets, as well as proteins circulating in the plasma. The coagulation cascade involves multiple proteins being converted to more active forms from less active precursors (for example, prothrombin [Factor II] is converted to thrombin [Factor IIa]), typically through proteolysis (see Proteases). Listed here are the components of the coagulation cascade targeted by agents in current clinical usage or at an advanced level of development.

Antithrombin is an inhibitor of thrombin, Factor Xa and multiple other proteinases. Lepirudin has been withdrawn from market. Drotrecogin alfa (activated; Xigris®) was voluntarily withdrawn from market due to lack of efficacy [21].

* Key recommended reading is highlighted with an asterisk

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Szu S. Wong School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering Hornbeam Building (HNB2.30) Keele University Newcastle Under Lyme Staffordshire ST5 5BG UK