GENERIC NAME: BIVALIRUDIN - INJECTABLE (bye-VAL-ih-roo-din)
BRAND NAME(S): Angiomax
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
USES: Bivalirudin is a "blood thinner" used in patients with certain heart problems (unstable angina) during a type of heart procedure (e.g., percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty - PTCA). This medication helps prevent blood clots from forming during and after this type of procedure and is usually used along with aspirin.
HOW TO USE: Follow all instructions for proper mixing and dilution with the correct IV fluids. If you have any questions regarding the use of this medication, consult your pharmacist. Give this medication by vein (IV) exactly as prescribed by the doctor. The dosage is based on the patient's weight, medical condition, and response to therapy. This medication should not be mixed with other injectable medications or used for longer than 24 hours. Consult your pharmacist. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, heartburn, pain/redness/swelling at the injection site, headache, or trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact the doctor or pharmacist. Tell the doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: unusual bleeding or bruising, blurred vision, dizziness, lightheadedness, pain (especially back pain, stomach/abdominal pain, or pelvic pain), mental/mood changes, persistent sore throat or fever. Tell the doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: unusually slow heartbeat, change in amount of urine, unusual tiredness or weakness. Tell the doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: one-sided weakness, loss of coordination, slurred speech, confusion, trouble breathing. If you notice any other effects not listed above, contact the doctor or pharmacist.
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.
- Angioplasty and Stents (Percutaneous Coronary Intervention, PCI) - Balloon angioplasty of the coronary artery and stents (percutaneous coronary intervention, PCI) is a non-surgical procedure that relieves narrowing and obstruction of the arteries to the muscle of the heart. PCI can relieve chest pain (angina), minimize or stop a heart attack, or improve the prognosis of patients with unstable angina. The availability of stainless steel stents have expanded the spectrum of patients suitable for PCI.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) - Learn about deep vein thrombosis causes like pregnancy, obesity, smoking, medications, prlonged sitting, cancer, polycythemia, and trauma to the leg. Symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention information is also included.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Interactive Slideshows