Pharmacologic Interventions for the Management of Critical Bleeding

Hospital pharmacists are often consulted for their knowledge about coagulation and therapeutic interventions for the management of critical bleeding. Many pharmacotherapies are available for this purpose, both systemic and topical, and others are in development. These agents and their mechanisms of action are reviewed, and perspectives are provided regarding their use in various clinical settings. Also provided are associated precautions to promote safe use. Current controversies surrounding pharmacotherapeutic agents used to control serious bleeding (e.g., in various types of surgery, trauma, obstetrics, and intracranial hemorrhage) are also discussed.