bivalirudin - injection, Angiomax
GENERIC NAME: BIVALIRUDIN - INJECTION (bye-VAL-ih-roo-din)
BRAND NAME(S): Angiomax
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects |
Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes |
Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Bivalirudin is a type of "blood thinner" used instead of heparin to prevent blood clots during certain procedures used to open up the blood vessels in the heart (e.g., balloon angioplasty, coronary stent placement, percutaneous coronary intervention-PCI). It is usually used with aspirin.Bivalirudin works by blocking a certain natural substance (thrombin) that the body uses to form blood clots. Blood clots can cause a heart attack or cause the opened blood vessel in the heart to close back up.
HOW TO USE: Follow all instructions for proper mixing and dilution with the correct IV fluids. If you have questions about using this medication properly, consult your pharmacist.Gently swirl the medication to mix. Do not shake. Before using this product, check it visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional before your procedure. It is then given slowly into a vein until the procedure is over. It may be continued for 4 to 20 hours after your procedure or as directed by your doctor.The dosage is based on your weight, medical condition, and response to treatment.After your procedure, you will need to lie very still with your head up slightly. The tube for your procedure is usually placed near the groin. Keep the leg (or other limb nearest the tube) straight to prevent bleeding from the tube area. Pressure will be applied to the area (e.g., with a sandbag, special pressure dressing/device). You will not be allowed out of bed for several hours after the procedure.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, heartburn, headache, or minor bleeding/irritation at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Serious bleeding is the most common serious side effect. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these signs of serious bleeding occur: bleeding/bruising/swelling/oozing around the area where the procedure tube was placed, uncontrolled nosebleed, fast/irregular heartbeat, pale/gray/bluish skin, pink/red urine, bloody/black/tarry stool, coughing up blood, vomit that looks like coffee grounds.Seek immediate medical attention if any of these signs of very serious bleeding occur: chest pain, vision problems, confusion, slurred speech, weakness on one side of the body.This medication may cause a decrease in blood platelets (thrombocytopenia). Tell your doctor immediately if you develop easy bleeding/bruising.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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