Update on Abciximab Readministration During Percutaneous Coronary Interventions.

Abstract

Abciximab is a monoclonal antibody fragment that blocks the platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor and is increasingly used as an adjunct to percutaneous coronary intervention. Because some patients will return for additional revascularization procedures, it is anticipated that abciximab retreatment may be necessary. There exists at least the theoretic potential for immunologic reactions and diminished efficacy upon re-exposure to abciximab. The limited data available regarding abciximab retreatment suggests that readministration is as safe and effective as first-time treatment, provided certain precautions are taken. This review summarizes the available clinical data and provides suggestions for safe abciximab readministration.