Bentracimab for reversal of the antiplatelet activity of ticagrelor

Bentracimab is in clinical development for reversal of the antiplatelet activity of ticagrelor. Ticagrelor binds to platelets to prevent them from forming blood clots that could restrict blood flow. The risk of blood clots is higher in people who have had a heart attack or chest pain, and are often prescribed ticagrelor alongside aspirin. Ticagrelor can significantly increase the risk of blood loss when undergoing bleeding or emergency surgery as the blood does not clot as easily, leading to complications. Prior to surgery, it is recommended to stop ticagrelor for five days, however this is not an option for urgent procedures.
Bentracimab is designed as an intravenous infusion to rapidly reverse the effect of ticagrelor by binding to ticagrelor and its target receptor in order to reduce blood thinning and allow blood clotting. If licensed, bentracimab will be the first medicine for ticagrelor-treated people who have uncontrolled major or life-threatening bleeding, or need urgent procedures that might result in severe blood loss.