A direct thrombin inhibitor. It works by preventing the formation of a blood clot.
Contains the active ingredient dabigatran etexilate, which is a type of medicine
called a direct thrombin inhibitor.
Blood clots usually only form to stop bleeding that has occurred as a result of injury
to tissue in the body. A clot that forms in the veins of the leg is called a deep
vein thrombosis. These dangerous blood clots can travel to the lungs, causing a serious
condition called a pulmonary embolism.
The blood clotting process is complicated. When blood begins to clot, a cascade of
chemicals is activated within the body, resulting in the formation of an enzyme called
thrombin. Thrombin is central to the complete process of blood clotting. It causes
a protein called fibrinogen to be converted into another called fibrin. Fibrin binds
blood cells called platelets together, and this forms the blood clot.
Dabigatran works by binding to thrombin in the clotting process described above and
blocking its action. This stops the formation of fibrin, the essential component
of blood clots. One of a group of medications that may be called ‘blood thinners’.
Do not use if:
You are allergic to any ingredient in Dabigatran.
You have certain types of active bleeding.
You are taking St. John's Wort.
Some medical conditions may interact with Dabigatran
such as:
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.
If you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation,
or dietary supplement.
If you have allergies to medicines, foodstuffss, or other substances.
If you have blood or bleeding problems, kidney problems, or are on dialysis.
If you have had recent or repeated stomach or intestinal bleeding, or if you have
a history of stomach ulcers.
If you will be having surgery or other medical procedures including dental procedures.
Consult with your health professional:
Do not suddenly stop taking Dabigatran without checking with your health professional.
Doing so may increase the risk of stroke.
Dabigatran decreases blood clotting. It may make you bleed more easily or bleed longer.
Inform your health professional that you take Dabigatran before you receive any medical
or dental intervention.
The elderly may be more sensitive to its effects, especially unusual or severe bleeding.
Safety and effectiveness in children have not been confirmed.
It is not known if Dabigatran is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding,
if you intend to become pregnant or are pregnant while you are taking Dabigatran
be sure to discuss this with your health professional.
Severe allergic reactions - rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness
in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue, wheezing.
Black, tarry, or bloody stools.
Chest pain.
Confusion.
Coughing up blood.
Dizziness.
Weakness.
Unusual headaches.
Fainting.
Joint pain.
Swelling, or discomfort.
One-sided weakness.
Pink, brown, or dark urine.
Severe or persistent sore throat.
Stomach pain.
Slurred speech.
Unusual bruising or bleeding such as: excessive bleeding from cuts, unusually heavy
menstrual or vaginal bleeding, repeated nosebleeds, unusual bleeding from gums.
