How heparins can interfere with argatroban blood tests

HEPARINS: INTERFERENCE IN ARGATROBAN MEASUREMENT

Observational University Hospital, Strasbourg, France · NCT07302620

This project will test whether remaining heparin in blood samples changes laboratory measurements of argatroban activity for adults treated with UFH or LMWH.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment70 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Strasbourg, France Academic / other
Locations1 site (Strasbourg)
Trial IDNCT07302620 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This is an observational analysis of routine blood samples sent to the Hematology Laboratory of the University Hospitals of Strasbourg from adults anticoagulated with unfractionated heparin or low molecular weight heparins. The laboratory currently uses a modified thrombin time calibrated for argatroban alongside anti-Xa measurements, and the study will examine how prior heparin exposure affects measured anti-IIa activity. By comparing assay results from samples with known heparin exposures, the team will quantify any overestimation of argatroban activity. Results aim to improve interpretation of argatroban monitoring when patients are switched from heparin products.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Adults (≥18 years) who are anticoagulated with unfractionated heparin or low molecular weight heparin and whose samples are sent to the Hematology Laboratory of Strasbourg for anti-Xa testing.

Not a fit: Patients receiving anticoagulants other than UFH or LMWH, pediatric patients, or those whose samples are not analyzed at the Strasbourg HUS laboratory are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could help laboratories measure argatroban more accurately and reduce bleeding or clotting risks when patients switch from heparin.

How similar studies have performed: Prior reports have described heparin interference with argatroban assays, but comprehensive, real-world laboratory evaluations of this interference are limited.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criterias:

* Adult patient (≥ 18 years)
* Patient anticoagulated with UFH or LMWH
* Sample sent to the Hematology Laboratory of the University Hospitals of Strasbourg (HUS) and analyzed for measurement of the anti-Xa activity of an anticoagulant in routine care

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patient receiving an anticoagulant other than UFH or LMWH
* Insufficient sample volume

Where this trial is running

Strasbourg

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Thromboembolic DiseaseHEPARINSARGATROBANUnfractionated heparinLow molecular weight heparinsAnti-Xa and anti-IIa activity
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.