Fondaparinux: a Factor Xa inhibitor for antithrombotic therapy

Fondaparinux (Arixtra) is the first of a new class of antithrombotic compounds - Factor Xa inhibitors. This synthetic pentasaccharide acts by inhibiting Factor Xa selectively. Its efficacy and safety have been demonstrated in animal models of venous and arterial thromboses and bleeding risk. In humans, its pharmacokinetic profile after subcutaneous injection shows a rapid onset of antithrombotic activity and an elimination half-life that …