Bivalirudin
Generic name: bivalirudin [ bye-VAL-i-roo-din ]
Brand name: Angiomax
Dosage forms: intravenous powder for injection (250 mg); intravenous solution (250 mg/50 mL)
Drug class:Thrombin inhibitors
What is bivalirudin?
Bivalirudin is an anticoagulant (thrombin inhibitor) that helps prevent the formation of blood clots.
Bivalirudin is used to prevent blood clots in people with severe chest pain or other conditions who are undergoing a procedure called angioplasty (to open blocked arteries).
Bivalirudin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not receive bivalirudin if you have any major bleeding from a surgery, injury, or other medical trauma.
Tell your doctor if you are using blood thinners or receiving any other medications to treat or prevent blood clots.
Bivalirudin can make it easier for you to bleed, even from a minor injury. Seek medical attention if you have unusual bruising, or bleeding that will not stop.
Before taking this medicine
You should not be treated with bivalirudin if you are allergic to bivalirudin, or if you have any major bleeding from a surgery, injury, or other medical trauma.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
heart disease;
kidney disease;
a bleeding or blood clotting disorder, such as hemophilia; or
if you use a blood thinner (warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven) and you have routine "INR" or prothrombin time tests.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How is bivalirudin given?
Bivalirudin is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection during your angioplasty procedure.
Your doctor may want you to continue receiving bivalirudin for a few hours after your angioplasty procedure.
Bivalirudin can make it easier for you to bleed, even from a minor injury. Seek medical attention if you have unusual bruising, or bleeding that will not stop.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since bivalirudin is used when needed, it does not have a daily ...
