Evaluation of dabigatran for appropriateness of use and bleeding events in a community hospital setting

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

American Health and Drug Benefits

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Warfarin has been the predominant anticoagulant for the prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). Its disadvantages are well-known and include a narrow therapeutic index, drug interactions, and the need for frequent monitoring. Dabigatran etexilate, a direct thrombin inhibitor, presents less complexity in prescribing and has emerged as an alternate therapy to warfarin. Although dabigatran does not require routine monitoring, concerns associated with its use include the lack of a reversal agent, complex dose adjustments, and limited guidance to the management of drug interactions.

First Page

376

Last Page

384

Publication Date

10-1-2014

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