In pharmacy, PCC stands for Prothrombin Complex Concentrate.
Understanding Prothrombin Complex Concentrate (PCC)
PCC is a medication used to treat and prevent bleeding in certain situations. It contains blood clotting factors, which are essential for the body to form blood clots and stop bleeding.
Key characteristics of PCC:
- Composition: PCC contains a combination of blood clotting factors. It can be a 3-factor PCC, containing factors II, IX, and X. Alternatively, it can be a 4-factor PCC, such as Kcentra, containing factors II, VII, IX, and X.
- Mechanism of Action: PCC works by providing these essential clotting factors to the blood, helping to improve the body's ability to form clots and control bleeding.
- Brand Name: Kcentra is a brand name under which 4-factor PCC is sold.
- Use: PCC is used to quickly reverse the effects of certain anticoagulant medications (like warfarin) and in the treatment of bleeding disorders where there is a deficiency of these clotting factors.
In summary, PCC is a medication containing blood clotting factors used to treat and prevent bleeding. It is available in different formulations, containing either three or four factors.
