Recombinant human activated protein C (Xigris) is indicated for which condition?

Recombinant human activated protein C (Xigris) is indicated for which condition?

• A. Factor V Leiden deficiency
• B. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia
• C. Septic shock
• D. Acute respiratory distress syndrome

Answer: (C)

The main concept is recognizing the specific approved use of recombinant human activated protein C. This drug was indicated for septic shock in adults with severe sepsis and organ dysfunction, aiming to blunt the excessive coagulation and inflammatory responses you see in those patients. It is not used for Factor V Leiden deficiency, a genetic thrombophilia, nor for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, which is managed by stopping heparin and using alternative anticoagulation, nor for ARDS, where it has no approved role. Therefore, septic shock is the correct indication. (Note: the drug was later withdrawn from the market due to bleeding risk and lack of demonstrated mortality benefit.)

The main concept is recognizing the specific approved use of recombinant human activated protein C. This drug was indicated for septic shock in adults with severe sepsis and organ dysfunction, aiming to blunt the excessive coagulation and inflammatory responses you see in those patients. It is not used for Factor V Leiden deficiency, a genetic thrombophilia, nor for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, which is managed by stopping heparin and using alternative anticoagulation, nor for ARDS, where it has no approved role. Therefore, septic shock is the correct indication. (Note: the drug was later withdrawn from the market due to bleeding risk and lack of demonstrated mortality benefit.)