Argatroban
About
Argatroban belongs to the anticoagulant medication class known as a direct thrombin inhibitor. It is used to manage heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), a rare, life-threatening complication of heparin therapy. Besides this, it works as an anticoagulant in adult patients with or at risk for HIT undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).
Argatroban contains 'Argatroban,' which is a direct thrombin inhibitor. It works by reversibly binding to thrombin, a substance in the blood that causes blood clotting. This prevents the formation of harmful clots in the body.
Argatroban is usually administered in the clinical/hospital setting under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. The most common side effects in HIT patients were dyspnea, hypotension, fever, diarrhoea, sepsis, and cardiac arrest. The most common side effects in PCI patients were chest pain, hypotension, back pain, nausea, vomiting and headache. These side effects may vary individually. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if you experience these side effects persistently.
Before taking the Argatroban, let your doctor know about all your medical conditions, sensitivities, and all medications you are using. Argatroban is not recommended during pregnancy unless indicated by the doctor. Discontinue nursing or drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother. It is recommended not to consume any alcoholic beverages to rule out any possibility of side effects. Safety and effectiveness have not been established in the paediatric population.
Uses of Argatroban
Medicinal Benefits
Argatroban contains 'Argatroban,' which is a direct thrombin inhibitor. It works by reversibly binding to thrombin, a substance in the blood that causes blood clotting. This prevents the formation of harmful clots in the body.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Argatroban
HIT patients:
- Dyspnea
- Hypotension
- Fever
- Diarrhoea
- Sepsis
- Cardiac Arrest
PCI patients:
- Chest Pain
- Hypotension
- Back Pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
Inform your doctor about all of your health problems (especially active bleeding), allergic reactions (food or medicine sensitivities), and drugs you are using (especially Thrombolytic agents such as Urokinase) before taking the Argatroban. When pregnant, Argatroban should not be used unless specifically advised by a physician. So, inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to. Discontinue nursing or medicine, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother. Do not consume any other medications while on therapy unless prescribed by the doctor.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Argatroban may interact with other anticoagulant medications (e.g. fondaparinux, enoxaparin, clopidogrel, rivaroxaban).
Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions found/established.
Drug-Disease Interactions: The use of Argatroban is contraindicated in the presence of active major bleeding.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionDo not consume alcohol while on treatment with Argatroban as it may lead to unpleasant side effects.
Pregnancy
cautionArgatroban should not be used in pregnancy unless clearly necessary. If you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and potential risks before prescribing Argatroban.
Breast Feeding
unsafeBreastfeeding must be avoided during treatment with Argatroban. Discuss with your doctor if you have any concerns.
Driving
cautionAvoid driving or operating machinery while you are on treatment with this medicine.
Liver
cautionPlease inform your doctor if you have liver conditions before receiving Argatroban. Your doctor may adjust the dose or prescribe a suitable alternative depending on your medical condition.
Kidney
cautionPlease inform your doctor if you have liver conditions before receiving Argatroban. Your doctor will prescribe only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Children
unsafeIt is not recommended for children as the safety and effectiveness have not been established.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Consume a well-balanced and healthy diet that includes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, omega-3-rich foods, and lean protein sources.
- Keep your weight under control with a BMI of 19.5-24.9.
- Exercise on a regular basis to keep your body and mind healthy.
- Avoid chronic stress.
- Smoking and consuming alcohol should be avoided.
- To reduce the risk of bleeding, avoid activities such as contact sports and the use of sharp objects such as nail cutters and razors.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a serious consequence that can arise in patients who have been exposed to any kind or dose of heparin. HIT is distinguished by a decrease in platelet count and a hypercoagulable condition. HIT patients may potentially develop thromboembolic consequences, which can result in considerable morbidity and mortality.
FAQs
Argatroban contains 'Argatroban,' which is a direct thrombin inhibitor. It works by reversibly binding to thrombin, a substance in the blood that causes blood clotting. This prevents the formation of harmful clots in the body.
The clinical assessment and laboratory data are used to diagnose HIT. Primary laboratory diagnostics for HIT include immunologic assays such as an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and functional platelet-activation assays such as the serotonin release assay (SRA).
When a person with haemophilia takes the blood-thinning treatment, their body develops antibodies against it, resulting in heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.
Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is triggered by antibodies that recognise complexes between platelet factor 4 (PF4) and heparin or glycosaminoglycan side chains.
