Argatroban
Argatroban is an anticoagulant medication used to prevent and treat blood clots, particularly in patients with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT).
Mechanism of Action:
Argatroban is a direct thrombin inhibitor, meaning it directly blocks the enzyme thrombin, which is essential for blood clotting. By inhibiting thrombin, argatroban prevents the formation of blood clots.
Indications:
- Prevention and treatment of HIT
- Anticoagulation during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with HIT or at risk of HIT
- Other situations where anticoagulation is needed, such as after surgery or in patients with severe trauma
Dosage and Administration:
Argatroban is administered as an intravenous infusion. The dosage is individualized based on the patient's weight and clotting status.
Side Effects:
The most common side effects of argatroban include:
Bleeding, Low platelet count, Allergic reactions, and Hepatic dysfunction.
Precautions:
- Argatroban should not be used in patients with HIT or a history of HIT.
- Patients with liver disease may require a lower dosage of argatroban.
- Argatroban can interact with other medications, including other anticoagulants, platelet inhibitors, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Monitoring:
Patients receiving argatroban should be closely monitored for bleeding and clotting time. Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is typically used to monitor anticoagulation.
Other Notes:
- Argatroban is a synthetic medication.
- It is available under the brand name Novastan.
- Argatroban was approved by the FDA in 2000.
This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional. Generative AI is experimental.
