Dabigatran Etexilate

Uses of Dabigatran Etexilate

Dabigatran Etexilate is commonly use in the treatment of deep Vein Thrombosis, Pulmonary Embolism and nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. It is also use in prophylaxis of stroke, deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.

How Dabigatran Etexilate Works

Dabigatran is a thrombin inhibitor. It inhibits both free and fibrin-bound thrombin leading to inhibition of coagulation. It prevents the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin, activation of factors V, VIII, XI, and XIII, and inhibition of thrombin-induced platelet aggregation.

Side Effects of Dabigatran Etexilate

Low red cell count (Anaemia), Bleeding nose (Epistaxis), Gastrointestinal bleeding, Abdominal pain, Diarrhea, Indigestion (dyspepsia), Nausea and vomiting, Blood in urine

Warnings

Kidney Use With Care

Dabigatran Etexilate should not be used in patients with severe kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Dabigatran Etexilate is required in mild to moderate kidney disease. Please consult your doctor

Alcohol Safe

It is safe to consume alcohol with dabigatran as there is no interaction between them.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Dabigatran Etexilate may be unsafe to use during pregnancy due to the results from animal studies that have shown adverse effects on the fetus. Nevertheless, there is limited evidence from human studies. The usage in pregnant women may be acceptable if the benefits outweigh the risks. Please consult your doctor.

Driving Generally Safe

Dabigatran Etexilate has no effect on the ability to drive.

Liver Limited Data

In severe liver disease with reduced survival rate, Dabigatran Etexilate is contraindicated.

Lactation Limited Data

There is no information about excretion of Dabigatran Etexilate in human milk. Therefore, Dabigatran Etexilate should be discontinued in lactating women.

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).