Compound Monograph
Eptifibatide
Eptifibatide is a synthetic cyclic peptide antiplatelet drug, not a psychoactive natural product.
Where Does It Come From? (1)
Eptifibatide is a naturally occurring cyclic peptide (glycoprotein iib/iiia inhibitor), found in Derived from a peptide found in the venom of the pygmy rattlesnake. It is flagged as moderately toxic.
Research & Evidence
Eptifibatide is a synthetic cyclic heptapeptide modelled on a structure found in the venom of the southeastern pygmy rattlesnake. It works as a glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor antagonist, blocking the final common pathway of platelet aggregation, and is used intravenously in hospital settings to prevent clot formation during acute coronary syndromes and percutaneous coronary intervention. Despite database tags suggesting otherwise, it is an antiplatelet medication with no psychedelic or recreational activity.
Toxicity & Safety
Its main risk is bleeding, including major haemorrhage, and it can cause thrombocytopenia (a fall in platelet count). It is used only under medical supervision and is contraindicated in people with active bleeding or recent stroke.