Has your doctor prescribed you a blood thinner or blood clot-preventing medication? The name of the medication may be Betrixaban. Many people are a little scared when they hear about this type of medication. But when you learn the details about it, you will realize that that fear is unnecessary. So, today we will talk about this medication called Betrixaban very simply and clearly.
What exactly is Betrixaban?
Simply put, Betrixaban is a drug that prevents blood clotting, or in our language, "thinning the blood." In medical terms, we call this class of drugs anticoagulants . The main purpose of this is to stop the formation of unnecessary blood clots in our body, whether in the veins or in the lungs. This is a drug that helps a lot in saving lives.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication
Before starting this medication, it is very important to inform your doctor about your complete health history. Because this is a medication that directly affects the blood, it can be dangerous to use it with certain medical conditions. If you have any of the conditions below, you should definitely tell your doctor.
| Do you have these conditions? | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome | This is a condition related to the immune system. |
| Bleeding disorders | Conditions that prevent blood from clotting easily, either as a birthmark or later. |
| If there is bleeding in the brain | Previously, it was like a blood vessel in the brain bursting. |
| Blood in the stool or with vomiting | Black (tarry) or red stools, vomiting blood or coffee grounds. |
| If there is stomach bleeding | Previous bleeding due to stomach ulcers. |
| Kidney or liver disease | If you have poor kidney or liver function. |
| Mechanical heart valve | If an artificial valve has been implanted in the heart. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to Betrixaban or any other medicines or foods. |
| Pregnancy or breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
How exactly do I use this medicine?
This is a pill that you take by mouth. Take it with a glass of water. The most important thing is to take it with a meal. Take it at the right time, as your doctor tells you. Do not take it more than the prescribed number of times a day.
Never stop taking this medication suddenly without your doctor's advice. Doing so can increase your risk of blood clots. Also, don't forget to refill your medication before it runs out.
If you are giving this medicine to young children, you should talk to a pediatrician about it. Special care may be required.
What if you take too much medicine? (Overdose)
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, do not delay. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or, go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
What other medications may interact with this medicine?
Other medications you are taking may interact with Betrixaban, so it is important to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
- A medicine that is absolutely not good to take: Avoid taking the medicine `defibrotide` with this.
- Other medications that may cause problems: If you are using the following medications, inform your doctor.
| Type of medicine | Usage |
|---|---|
| Aspirin and similar medications | For painkillers and heart disease |
| Other blood thinners | Ex: Warfarin, enoxaparin, dalteparin |
| NSAIDs (painkillers) | Eg: Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Diclofenac |
| Medications for depression (SSRIs/SNRIs) | Ex: Citalopram, Fluoxetine, Duloxetine |
| Some antibiotics and antifungals | Eg: Azithromycin, Clarithromycin, Ketoconazole |
| Amiodarone, Verapamil | For heart disease and high blood pressure |
This list is not exhaustive. So tell your doctor about all the medications, vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements you are taking. Also, tell them if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Things to keep in mind when taking medication
There is a slightly increased risk of bleeding when taking this medication, so it is very important to be a little careful.
- Avoid sports and activities that can cause injury. A major fall can cause internal bleeding that is not visible.
- Be very careful when using sharp tools like knives and scissors. If you are shaving, it is safer to use an electric razor.
- Be gentle when brushing and flossing. Check for bleeding gums.
- If you develop any bruises or red spots on your body, tell your doctor immediately.
- If you are going to have surgery or have a tooth extracted, you should definitely tell the doctor that you are taking this medication.
Side effects that may occur due to this medicine
| Type of side effect | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Bleeding symptoms | Blood in the stool (black/tarry), red/dark brown urine, vomiting coffee grounds, unusual bleeding from the eyes, gums, or nose. |
| Symptoms of a blood clot | Chest pain, shortness of breath, leg pain, swelling, or warmth. |
| Symptoms of a Stroke | Vision changes, confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding, severe headache, sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious (but should be reported to the doctor if they persist) | |
| Digestive system problems | Constipation, bloating, nausea. |
| Headache | Slight headache. |
Take-Home Message
- Betrixaban is an anticoagulant medication. Take it with food as directed by your doctor.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about any other illnesses you have and all other medications you are taking.
- Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without your doctor's advice.
- If you experience any dangerous side effects, such as unusual bleeding, bruising, or severe headache, seek medical advice immediately.
- While taking this medicine, be very careful when doing activities that could cause injury.
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