Dabigatran

Definition

Dabigatran is an oral anticoagulant that works as a direct thrombin inhibitor. It is used to prevent and treat blood clots, reducing the risk of stroke in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dabigatran directly inhibits thrombin, which is essential for converting fibrinogen to fibrin during blood clot formation.
2. It does not require routine monitoring like warfarin but has specific reversal agents such as idarucizumab.
3. Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues and an increased risk of bleeding.
4. It is contraindicated in patients with mechanical heart valves due to an increased risk of complications.
5. Dabigatran is primarily excreted by the kidneys, so renal function should be monitored.

Review Questions

• How does dabigatran differ from warfarin in terms of monitoring requirements?
• What specific enzyme does dabigatran inhibit to exert its anticoagulant effect?
• Why must renal function be monitored in patients taking dabigatran?

Related terms

Warfarin: An oral anticoagulant that acts by inhibiting vitamin K-dependent clotting factors.

Heparin: An injectable anticoagulant that activates antithrombin III, leading to inhibition of thrombin and factor Xa.

Idarucizumab: A monoclonal antibody fragment used as a reversal agent for dabigatran in cases of emergency surgery or life-threatening bleeding.