Intravascular targeting of a new anticoagulant heparin compound.

Since most thrombotic reactions occur on the vessel wall, interaction of anticoagulants with vascular components is critical. Heparin (H) is the primary drug for treatment and prevention of thrombosis. To improve H's efficacy and bioavailability, a covalent complex of H and its biological target, antithrombin (AT), was developed. While H has a short, variable intravenous half-life leading to unpredictable anticoagulation, clearance of covalent …