Betrixaban
Indications
Betrixaban is an oral anticoagulant (blood thinner). It is used to prevent blood clots in the deep veins of the legs (deep vein thrombosis) and clots that travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism) in adults admitted to hospital for an acute medical illness who are at risk of clots because of reduced mobility and other risk factors. Treatment continues for a set period after discharge.
How It Works
Betrixaban directly blocks factor Xa, a key protein in the chain of reactions that forms blood clots. By blocking it, the body makes less thrombin, the enzyme that turns soluble fibrinogen into the fibrin threads of a clot. This lowers the chance of a clot forming.
Dosage and Administration
Take exactly as prescribed. The usual adult regimen is a first dose of 160 mg, then 80 mg once a day, taken with food at the same time each day, for 35 to 42 days. Lower doses are used in severe kidney impairment or with certain interacting medicines. Do not stop taking it without speaking to your doctor.
Interactions
The risk of bleeding increases with other blood thinners (such as Warfarin, Heparin, Enoxaparin, Rivaroxaban, Apixaban), antiplatelet medicines (Aspirin, Clopidogrel), NSAID painkillers (Ibuprofen, Diclofenac, Naproxen) and some antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs). Strong P-glycoprotein inhibitors such as Amiodarone, Azithromycin, Clarithromycin, Ketoconazole and Verapamil raise its levels, so a lower dose is used.
Contraindications
Do not take if you have active serious bleeding or are allergic to Betrixaban. It is not used in people with mechanical heart valves.
Side Effects
Bleeding is the main side effect: nosebleeds, bleeding gums, easy bruising, blood in the urine, heavy periods. Other effects include nausea, constipation, headache and low potassium.
Get urgent medical help if you have heavy or uncontrolled bleeding, vomiting blood or material like coffee grounds, black or bloody stools, red or dark brown urine, coughing up blood, sudden severe headache, weakness, dizziness or fainting. After spinal or epidural anaesthesia, report back pain, numbness or leg weakness at once.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Safety in pregnancy is not established and bleeding risk may affect mother and baby; use only if your doctor decides it is needed. It is not known whether it passes into breast milk; breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment.
Precautions and Warnings
Tell all doctors and dentists you take this medicine before any procedure. Use with caution in severe kidney disease, recent surgery, stomach ulcers, uncontrolled high blood pressure and bleeding disorders. Stopping early increases the risk of clots. Spinal or epidural procedures carry a risk of spinal blood clots.
Overdose
Overdose increases the risk of serious bleeding. Seek emergency medical help immediately. Treatment is supportive and may include blood products; a specific reversal agent may be used in hospital where available.
Therapeutic Class
Anticoagulant (direct factor Xa inhibitor).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Betrixaban