Zigris: an effective drug for the treatment of sepsis
Zigris (drotrecogin alfa) is an indirect anticoagulant used to treat sepsis in adult patients with acute multiple organ failure and a high risk of death. The drug is produced by the Eli Lilly pharmaceutical group in Germany and is available as a lyophilisate for the preparation of a solution for infusion of 5 mg and 20 mg.
Sepsis is a life-threatening disease that occurs in response to infection and can lead to severe inflammation, organ failure and death. Zigris is an effective treatment for sepsis as it helps improve hemodynamics and reduce the risk of death.
However, Zigris has some contraindications and side effects. Contraindications include ongoing internal bleeding, recent hemorrhagic stroke, intracranial or spinal cord surgery, severe traumatic brain injury, trauma associated with a high risk of life-threatening bleeding, presence of an epidural catheter, intracranial tumors/mass or evidence of cerebral herniation, and known increased sensitivity to drotrecogin alfa or other substances included in the drug.
Side effects of Zigris may include bleeding, including severe, life-threatening bleeding that may occur during the infusion. However, when using Zigris in combination with other drugs that affect hemostasis, caution should be exercised.
In case of an overdose of Zigris, bleeding may develop or intensify. In this case, it is necessary to immediately stop the drug infusion and establish careful monitoring of existing or possible bleeding. There are no known antidotes for Sigris.
Despite the risks associated with the use of Zigris, the drug is an effective treatment for sepsis in patients at high risk of death. When prescribing Zigris, it is necessary to carefully evaluate the indications and contraindications, as well as assess the risk of side effects.