Dabigo 150 Mg Capsule (10 Cap)

DABIGO 150 MG CAPSULE

Dabigo 150 mg Capsule is an anticoagulant, commonly known as a blood thinner, manufactured by Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd..

• Name:
  • Brand Name: Dabigo 150 mg Capsule
  • Common Name: Dabigatran Etexilate
• Composition: Each capsule contains 150 mg of Dabigatran Etexilate. This active ingredient is converted into dabigatran, which directly inhibits thrombin, a key enzyme in blood clot formation.
• Uses: Dabigo 150 mg Capsule is prescribed for the treatment and prevention of blood clots. It is primarily used to reduce the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in adults with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat). Additionally, it's effective in preventing and treating deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), and reducing clot formation after knee or hip replacement surgeries.
• Dosage and Administration: The typical adult dosage for conditions like atrial fibrillation or blood clots is 150 mg taken twice daily. It can be taken with or without food, but it is recommended to take it at the same time each day for best results. Capsules should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not crushed or chewed. Do not stop or adjust the dose without consulting a doctor.
• Side Effects: Common side effects include nausea, anemia, gastrointestinal bleeding, dyspepsia, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nosebleeds, and skin bleeding. More serious, though less common, side effects can include headaches, seizures, allergic reactions, changes in eyesight, and fatigue. There is an increased risk of bleeding with this medicine.
• Precautions: Dabigo 150 mg Capsule should be used with caution in patients with severe kidney or liver issues, active bleeding, or those concurrently using other blood-thinning medications. It is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers. Inform your doctor about any recent injuries, inflammation of the food pipe or stomach, or upcoming surgeries or dental treatments, as the medication may need to be temporarily stopped. Concomitant use with certain medicines like verapamil, amiodarone, quinidine, clarithromycin, posaconazole, ketoconazole, cyclosporin, dronedarone, rifampicin, carbamazepine, phenytoin, or NSAIDs should be discussed with a doctor due to potential interactions. Heavy alcohol consumption can increase the risk of bleeding.
• Storage: Store Dabigo 150 mg Capsules in their original package to protect from moisture, at room temperature (15°C to 30°C or 59°F to 86°F). Keep them out of the reach and sight of children and pets. Once the bottle is opened, it should be used within 4 months; otherwise, discard safely.

DABIGO 150 MG CAPSULE, containing the active ingredient Dabigatran Etexilate, is an anticoagulant medication primarily used to prevent and treat blood clots.

What is DABIGO 150 MG CAPSULE used for?

DABIGO 150 MG CAPSULE is used to reduce the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in adults with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (an irregular heartbeat not caused by heart valve issues). It is also prescribed for the treatment and prevention of deep vein thrombosis (DVT, blood clots usually in the legs) and pulmonary embolism (PE, blood clots in the lungs). Additionally, it can be used to prevent DVT and PE after hip replacement surgery.

How does DABIGO 150 MG CAPSULE work?

DABIGO 150 MG CAPSULE contains Dabigatran Etexilate, which is a prodrug that gets converted into its active form, dabigatran, in the body. Dabigatran works as a direct thrombin inhibitor. Thrombin is a crucial enzyme in the blood clotting cascade that converts fibrinogen into fibrin, which is essential for clot formation. By reversibly binding to and inhibiting thrombin, dabigatran prevents the formation and growth of blood clots, thereby "thinning" the blood.

What is the usual dosage for DABIGO 150 MG CAPSULE?

For adults with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, or for the treatment and prevention of DVT and PE, the typical dosage of Dabigatran is 150 mg taken twice daily. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose, such as 110 mg twice daily, if you are over 80 years old, have kidney problems, are at a higher risk of bleeding, or are taking certain interacting medications like verapamil. For preventing blood clots after hip replacement surgery, an initial dose of 110 mg may be given 1 to 4 hours after surgery, followed by 220 mg once daily for 28 to 35 days. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.

What are the possible side effects of DABIGO 150 MG CAPSULE?

The most common side effects are related to bleeding because the medicine affects blood clotting. These can include easy bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, prolonged bleeding from cuts, heavier menstrual periods, blood in urine (pink or brown), or black, tarry stools. Gastrointestinal issues are also common, such as indigestion (dyspepsia), stomach pain, upset stomach, heartburn, and nausea. Severe bleeding, including bleeding in the brain, is a serious but less common side effect. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any unusual or severe bleeding, severe headache, dizziness, weakness, or significant abdominal pain.

Is DABIGO 150 MG CAPSULE safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

DABIGO 150 MG CAPSULE should generally be avoided during pregnancy due to an increased risk of severe bleeding in the uterus. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or become pregnant while taking this medication, inform your doctor immediately, as they will likely switch you to a different anticoagulant.

Regarding breastfeeding, dabigatran passes into breast milk in tiny amounts, and adverse effects on the infant are considered unlikely. However, due to limited information, your doctor may recommend an alternative medication. If you continue to breastfeed, monitor your baby for signs of unusual bruising, bleeding, or changes in feeding.

Can DABIGO 150 MG CAPSULE be taken with other medications?

DABIGO 150 MG CAPSULE can interact with other medications, particularly those that also affect blood clotting, increasing the risk of bleeding. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Medicines that may interact include other anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin, heparin, rivaroxaban, apixaban), antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin, clopidogrel), and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen. Certain medications that affect drug transporters (P-gp inhibitors like dronedarone or ketoconazole, or P-gp inducers like rifampin) can also alter the levels of dabigatran in your body.

What precautions should be taken while on DABIGO 150 MG CAPSULE?

• Do not stop taking DABIGO without first talking to your doctor, as this can significantly increase your risk of blood clots and stroke.
• Monitor for bleeding: Be vigilant for any signs of unusual bleeding or bruising and report them to your doctor.
• Inform healthcare providers: Always tell any doctor, dentist, or other healthcare professional treating you that you are taking DABIGO, especially before any planned surgery or medical procedures. This medication may need to be temporarily stopped.
• Injury prevention: Exercise caution to avoid injuries. Use a soft toothbrush, an electric razor, and be careful with sharp objects. Avoid contact sports.
• Spinal procedures: If you need spinal or epidural anesthesia or a spinal puncture, discuss this with your doctor, as there is an increased risk of spinal blood clots that could cause paralysis.
• Kidney function: Your doctor will regularly check your kidney function, as dosage adjustments may be necessary based on kidney health.
• Medical Alert Card: You should carry an anticoagulant alert card at all times.
• Prosthetic Heart Valves: Dabigatran is not recommended for patients with mechanical prosthetic heart valves.

What happens if a dose of DABIGO 150 MG CAPSULE is missed?

If you miss a dose of DABIGO 150 MG CAPSULE, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is less than 6 hours until your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should DABIGO 150 MG CAPSULE be stored?

DABIGO (Dabigatran) capsules must be stored in their original manufacturer's bottle or blister package to protect them from moisture, which can cause the product to break down and lose potency. Keep the bottle tightly closed immediately after each use. Do not transfer the capsules to pill boxes or organizers. Store at room temperature, typically between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Once a bottle is opened, any unused capsules should be discarded after 4 months (some labels may state 60 days, so always check the specific packaging instructions).