dabigatran

Approved for medical use in 2010, Dabigatran is indicated for the treatment and prevention of blood clots, particularly in those with a history of prior clots, or in patients who have undergone hip or knee replacement surgeries. According to drugs.com, this medication is also used “to lower the risk of stroke caused by a blood clot in people with a heart rhythm disorder called atrial fibrillation”. When it comes to its mechanism of action, Dabigatran works by “blocking the clotting protein thrombin” (rxlist.com). Bear in mind that Dabigatran can cause easy bleeding. Therefore, you must call your doctor if you have bleeding gums, heavy menstrual bleeding, nosebleeds, or if you start coughing up blood. You’ll also need to get immediate medical help “if you have symptoms of a spinal cord blood clot such as back pain, numbness or muscle weakness in your lower body, or loss of bladder or bowel control.” In fact, this type of blood clot can cause long-term or even permanent paralysis. So, you must not ignore it. Remember that Dabigatran may occasionally cause bleeding in the mother or the newborn baby during pregnancy. Then again, “the benefit of preventing a blood clot may outweigh any risks to the baby.” You’ll still need to let your doctor know if you are pregnant before using this drug in order to get a proper medical advice.