Uses of undefined

Argatroban is used in the treatment of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT).  It works by binding to the active site of thrombin, an enzyme that is essential for blood clot formation. This prevents thrombin from activating other clotting factors and forming clots.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Argatroban will be administered to you by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. It is usually administered in a vein (intravenous). Your doctor will decide the dose, route of administration, and frequency based on your disease condition and other factors.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Argatroban should not be consumed if you are allergic to Argatroban or any of its ingredients in the medication. Avoid taking this medicine if you have uncontrolled bleeding or severely impaired liver function. Notify your doctor if you have an increased risk of bleeding and recently had injections or infusions of other anticoagulants such as heparin. This medicine is not advised to use in children under 18 years old. Do not consume alcohol and avoid driving.  

Precautions

Before taking the medicine, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or think you may be pregnant or are breastfeeding. Notify your doctor if you have or have had a history of any disease. Argatroban should be used cautiously in patients with liver conditions. Your doctor will adjust the dose if needed. Contact your doctor for more information. 

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Argatroban are anemia, blood clotting, purpura bleeding (numerous small bleeding in the skin and mucus membranes), and nausea. Serious side effects while taking Argatroban are bleeding or bruising, blood in urine or stools, vomiting or coughing up blood, black stools, difficulty in breathing, cold sweaty skin, dry mouth, or dilated pupils with a weak and rapid pulse. 

Word Of Advice

Patients with liver conditions should take Argatroban cautiously and inform their doctor about all the underlying medical conditions. Do not stop the medicine until your doctor advises. Do not double-dose the medicine to make up for a forgotten dose. If you have HIT type II, there is a higher chance of developing dangerous blood clots in your body that can lead to heart attacks, strokes, breathing difficulties, and issues with blood flow in your limbs. This medicine can help prevent these problems from occurring or getting worse.

Do not breastfeed while taking Argatroban unless your doctor advises. Notify your doctor if you experience any serious side effects. Your medical professional will inform you if you need any dose adjustments. Contact your doctor for more information.

Frequently Asked Question

• How to manage the side effects of Argatroban?
• To manage the side effects of Argatroban, follow the prescribed dosage, and report side effects promptly. Stay hydrated, and monitor blood pressure regularly. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, and attend follow-up appointments. 

• When to stop Argatroban before surgery? 
• The decision to discontinue argatroban before surgery should be made by a healthcare professional, taking into consideration various factors such as the type of surgery, the patient's underlying medical condition, and the risk of bleeding. So, consult your doctor for more information. 

• Can you take Argatroban when pregnant?  
• Consult your medical professional regarding the use of Argatroban during pregnancy. The potential benefits and risks should be carefully assessed. Your doctor will suggest taking this medicine only if it's necessary. 

• What are the side effects of Argatroban?
• Common side effects of Argatroban include bleeding or bruising, blood in urine or stools, vomiting or coughing up blood, black stools, difficulty in breathing, cold, sweaty skin, dry mouth, dilated pupils and/or weak rapid pulse. It is crucial to consult your doctor for any concerns or persistent side effects.

• How does argatroban work? 
• Argatroban binds to thrombin and prevents it from binding to fibrinogen, a protein that is involved in blood clotting. This prevents thrombin from forming a clot.