Acitrom 2 Tablet

ACITROM 2 TABLET by ABBOTT

Acitrom 2 Tablet is an oral anticoagulant, commonly known as a blood thinner, manufactured by Abbott. It is prescribed to prevent and treat various thromboembolic diseases.

Composition

The active ingredient in Acitrom 2 Tablet is Acenocoumarol (2mg), also known as Nicoumalone. This ingredient works by inhibiting the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors in the liver, thereby reducing the blood's ability to clot.

Uses

Acitrom 2 Tablet is used to prevent and treat blood clots in veins and arteries. It is prescribed for conditions such as:

• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) (blood clots in leg veins)
• Pulmonary Embolism (PE) (blood clots in the lung)
• Stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat)
• Prevention of clot formation after heart valve replacement surgery
• Long-term clot control in patients prone to recurrent clotting events

Dosage and Administration

Acitrom 2 Tablet should be taken exactly as prescribed by a physician, preferably at the same time each day. It can be taken with or without food, swallowed whole with water, and should not be crushed, chewed, or broken. Regular monitoring of blood clotting time (INR or prothrombin time tests) is crucial to ensure optimal dosage and prevent excessive bleeding. Do not stop taking the medication abruptly without consulting a doctor.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Easy bruising
• Nosebleeds
• Bleeding gums
• Prolonged bleeding from cuts
• Fatigue or mild weakness

Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include:

• Blood in vomit, urine, or stool (black, tarry stools or bright red blood)
• Coughing up blood
• Sudden severe headache or weakness in one arm or leg (signs of bleeding in the brain)
• Allergic reactions (swelling, rash, difficulty breathing)

Precautions

• Pregnancy: Acitrom 2 Tablet is generally not recommended during pregnancy due to the risk of fetal harm and increased bleeding during childbirth.
• Breastfeeding: Use with caution; consult a doctor.
• Alcohol: Avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it may interfere with INR control and increase the risk of side effects.
• Cranberry products: Avoid cranberry juice or other cranberry products as they may reduce the effectiveness or enhance the blood-thinning effect.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems, bleeding disorders, high blood pressure, stomach ulcers, or are scheduled for surgery or dental treatment.
• Other Medications: Inform your doctor about all other medicines, including supplements and herbal products, to avoid drug interactions.
• Diet: Avoid sudden major changes to your diet, especially concerning foods rich in Vitamin K (e.g., leafy green vegetables), as they can impact the effectiveness of the medicine.

Storage

Store Acitrom 2 Tablet in a cool and dry place, below 30°C. Protect it from direct sunlight and heat, and keep it out of the sight and reach of children.

Frequently Asked Questions about ACITROM 2 TABLET

What is Acitrom 2 Tablet used for?

Acitrom 2 Tablet, containing Nicoumalone (also known as Acenocoumarol), is an oral anticoagulant ("blood thinner") used to prevent and treat various types of blood clots (thromboembolic diseases). It is prescribed for conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (blood clots in leg veins), pulmonary embolism (blood clots in the lung), and to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation or those who have undergone heart valve replacement. It also prevents existing clots from becoming larger.

How does Acitrom 2 Tablet work?

Acitrom 2 Tablet works by inhibiting the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors (specifically factors II, VII, IX, and X) in the liver. By reducing these clotting proteins, the medication increases the time it takes for your blood to clot, thereby preventing the formation of new blood clots and stopping existing ones from enlarging. It does not dissolve blood clots that have already formed.

What is the usual dosage for Acitrom 2 Tablet?

The dosage of Acitrom 2 Tablet is determined by your doctor based on your medical condition and requires regular monitoring of your blood's clotting time (INR - International Normalized Ratio) to ensure optimal balance between preventing clots and avoiding excessive bleeding. It is usually taken once daily, at the same time each day, with or without food. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not crushed, chewed, or broken.

What are the possible side effects of Acitrom 2 Tablet?

The most common and significant side effect of Acitrom 2 Tablet is bleeding, which can manifest as easy bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, prolonged bleeding from cuts, blood in urine, blood in stools (black, tarry stools), or vomiting blood. Less common side effects may include skin rash, fatigue, mild weakness, loss of appetite, nausea, or hair loss. You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience unusual or severe bleeding.

Is Acitrom 2 Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Acitrom 2 Tablet is generally considered unsafe and is not recommended during pregnancy due to the significant risk of harm to the developing baby. During breastfeeding, it is advised to consult your doctor. While some studies suggest the drug may not pass into breast milk in a significant amount and might be safe if prescribed, others recommend caution and close monitoring of the infant for any signs of bleeding. Your doctor may also suggest vitamin K supplementation for the baby as a precaution.

Can Acitrom 2 Tablet be taken with other medications?

Acitrom 2 Tablet can interact with various other medications, increasing the risk of bleeding. This includes other blood thinners (like aspirin, NSAIDs, heparin, clopidogrel), certain antibiotics (e.g., clindamycin, clarithromycin, amoxicillin, ciprofloxacin), antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline), and some medicines for heart and brain-related disorders. Proton pump inhibitors (like omeprazole) should be used with caution. Always inform your doctor about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal products, and supplements, to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while on Acitrom 2 Tablet?

Regular INR blood tests are crucial to monitor the medication's effect. Do not stop taking Acitrom 2 Tablet abruptly without consulting your doctor, as this can increase the risk of blood clots. Avoid or limit alcohol consumption and cranberry juice/products, as they can interfere with the medicine's effectiveness and increase bleeding risk. Be cautious with activities that may cause injury, such as shaving or using sharp objects, and avoid contact sports. Inform your doctor about any liver, kidney, or heart problems, high blood pressure, stomach ulcers, or bleeding disorders. If you are scheduled for any surgery or dental treatment, inform your doctor well in advance, as you may need to temporarily stop the medication. Avoid making sudden major changes to your diet, especially regarding foods rich in Vitamin K.

What happens if a dose of Acitrom 2 Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose of Acitrom 2 Tablet, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one, as this can significantly increase your bleeding risk.

How should Acitrom 2 Tablet be stored?

Acitrom 2 Tablet should be stored in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight and heat. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Ensure the medicine is used before its expiry date.