Protein C
Protein C is a naturally occurring anticoagulant protein that plays a critical role in the body's natural clotting prevention system. As a medication, it is used to treat or prevent blood clots in patients with congenital or acquired protein C deficiency, including conditions like purpura fulminans and warfarin-induced skin necrosis. It works by inactivating clotting factors Va and VIIIa, thereby reducing excessive clot formation.
Protein C is an anticoagulant therapy used to prevent or treat blood clots in patients with protein C deficiency.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- B01AD12
- RxNorm
- 8834
- Generic
- Protein C
- Class
- atc-b01
- Brands
- Kcentra, Balfaxar, Ceprotin
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- injection
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Protein C concentrate is indicated for the prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism in patients with severe congenital protein C deficiency, purpura fulminans, and warfarin-associated skin necrosis. It may also be used in disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) with protein C deficiency.
Protein C is a vitamin K-dependent serine protease that, when activated by the thrombin-thrombomodulin complex, inactivates coagulation factors Va and VIIIa. This action reduces thrombin generation and subsequent clot formation, providing an anticoagulant effect.
Protein C concentrate is generally well-tolerated but may cause hypersensitivity reactions. Close monitoring for bleeding is essential, and concurrent use with other anticoagulants requires caution. Treatment should be guided by protein C activity levels. Natural protein C levels have a half-life of several hours, but concentrate duration may vary.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy