Evaluation of Bivalirudin During Adult Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Retrospective Characterization of Dosing, Efficacy and Bleeding.

Although heparin is the current standard anticoagulant during venoarterial (VA) and venovenous (VV) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), factors including heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, heparin resistance and drug shortages necessitate alternative anticoagulants such as direct thrombin inhibitors. The aim was to characterize dosing, safety, and efficacy of bivalirudin during ECMO support. This retrospective single-center study included 24 adults on ECMO support who received ≥6 hours of bivalirudin.

Efficacy and Safety of Immediate-Release Nifedipine in Critically Ill Patients.

Immediate-release nifedipine (IRN) is a calcium channel blocker with potent vasodilatory and antihypertensive properties. Safety concerns led to a black box warning for increased risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, and arrhythmias. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of IRN for acute blood pressure lowering in critically ill patients.