dabigatran 150mg d (Pradaxa)

Question 1

Class

Answer 1

Direct thrombin inhibitors

Question 2

Indications

Answer 2

• Prevention of VTE after elective total hip or knee replacement
• Non-valvular AF and a high risk of stroke or systemic embolism

Question 3

Dose Range

Answer 3

Prevention of VTE after knee/hip replacement:
Treat for 10 days after knee replacement and 28–35 days after hip replacement.
Adult, initially 110 mg within 1–4 hours of completed surgery, then 220 mg once daily. If dabigatran cannot be started on the day of surgery, give 220 mg once daily.

Prevention of emboli in AF:
Adult, 150 mg twice daily.

Question 4

Counselling/SE

Answer 4

• Swallow capsules whole –> break/crush/chew can increase risk of bleeding
• take same time each day, use calendar to avoid double dosing
• Tell dr/other treating practitioners that you’re taking this med.
• do not take other meds without consulting dr/pharmacist
• see Dr for regular checks
• unexplained bruising, bleeding, pink, red or dark brown urine, or red or black faeces –> SEE DOC

SE:

• gastritis
• dyspepsia
• GI bleeding

Question 5

Monitoring

Answer 5

• renal function
• unexplained bruising or bleeding
• compliance