VKA induced catastrophic bleeding management with Prothrombin Complex Concentrate (PCC): a practice changer

Abstract

Vitamin K antagonists (VKA), which were once used as rodenticides decades ago, became lifesaving drugs later in managing thromboembolic disorders. However, they have a narrow therapeutic window and may lead to bleeding if not used or monitored cautiously. At times bleeding might be catastrophic costing the life of the patient. Over ages, bleeding due to supratherapeutic anticoagulation reversal has been done with Vitamin K and fresh frozen plasma. Prothrombin Concentrates (PCC) have revolutionized such scenario and have become the standard of care.