WARNING

Betrixaban is an anticoagulant medication used to prevent blood clots in certain conditions. Like all medications, it carries risks. Some common risks associated with taking Betrixaban include an increased risk of bleeding, which can range from minor bruising to more serious bleeding events. This risk is particularly significant in people with certain medical conditions or those taking other blood-thinning medications. Additionally, Betrixaban may interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects or reducing its effectiveness. It’s important for individuals taking Betrixaban to closely follow their healthcare provider’s instructions and report any unusual symptoms or bleeding immediately.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Betrixaban is prescribed primarily to prevent blood clots in adults who are hospitalized for medical illnesses, such as certain types of heart or lung conditions. It belongs to a class of medications called factor Xa inhibitors, which work by blocking the activity of a clotting protein called factor Xa, thereby reducing the risk of clot formation.

How should this medicine be used?

Betrixaban is typically taken orally with food, once daily. The dosage and duration of treatment depend on the specific medical condition being treated and individual patient factors. It’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions precisely. Avoid missing doses and do not stop taking Betrixaban without consulting your healthcare provider, as doing so can increase the risk of blood clots. Additionally, inform your healthcare provider about any other medications or supplements you’re taking, as they may interact with Betrixaban. Regular monitoring and follow-up with your healthcare provider are essential while taking this medication to ensure its effectiveness and safety.

Other uses for this medicine

Betrixaban is primarily used to prevent blood clots in adults hospitalized for certain medical conditions. Its primary indication is for venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis in adults hospitalized for an acute medical illness who are at risk for thromboembolic complications due to moderate or severe restricted mobility and other risk factors.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions:

• Bleeding Risk: Betrixaban increases the risk of bleeding. Inform your healthcare provider if you have any bleeding disorders or are taking other medications that also increase bleeding risk, such as other anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs.
• Liver Function: Betrixaban is metabolized by the liver, so individuals with impaired liver function may require dosage adjustments. Your healthcare provider may monitor your liver function during treatment.
• Kidney Function: Betrixaban is eliminated through the kidneys. If you have impaired kidney function, your healthcare provider may adjust your dosage accordingly.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Betrixaban and affect its efficacy or increase the risk of side effects.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Betrixaban may not be safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood coagulation parameters, such as prothrombin time (PT) or activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), may be necessary during treatment with Betrixaban to ensure its efficacy and safety.
• Medical Procedures: Inform healthcare providers, including dentists and surgeons, that you are taking Betrixaban before any medical procedures, including dental procedures or surgeries, as it may need to be temporarily stopped to reduce bleeding risk.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and never adjust your dosage or stop taking Betrixaban without consulting them first.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Betrixaban. However, maintaining a balanced diet and avoiding excessive consumption of foods high in vitamin K (such as leafy green vegetables) may help ensure consistent anticoagulation levels.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Betrixaban, take it as soon as you remember on the same day. If it’s already the next day, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you have any concerns or questions about missed doses, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Betrixaban, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Betrixaban may include:

• Bleeding: This is the most common side effect, ranging from minor bruising to more serious bleeding events. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any signs of bleeding, such as unusual bruising, nosebleeds, blood in urine or stool, or prolonged bleeding from cuts.
• Nausea and vomiting: Some people may experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or vomiting.
• Headache: Headaches are a relatively common side effect reported by some individuals taking Betrixaban.
• Dizziness: Feeling dizzy or lightheaded may occur in some individuals.
• Itching or Rash: Skin reactions such as itching or rash may occur but are less common.
• Liver Enzyme Elevation: Betrixaban may cause elevation of liver enzymes in some individuals, although this is usually asymptomatic.
• Allergic Reactions: Rarely, allergic reactions may occur, characterized by symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or severe itching or rash. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.

It’s important to report any unusual or bothersome symptoms to your healthcare provider while taking Betrixaban. Additionally, if you experience any serious side effects or signs of an allergic reaction, seek prompt medical attention.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Betrixaban:

• Storage: Store Betrixaban at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Do not store it in the bathroom or kitchen where it might be exposed to moisture or heat.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Betrixaban tablets properly according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal authority for proper disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Help: If you suspect an overdose or experience symptoms such as excessive bleeding, contact emergency medical services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
• Symptom Management: If excessive bleeding occurs, it may be necessary to administer treatments to stop the bleeding. Follow the instructions provided by healthcare professionals.

What other information should I know?

• It’s important to take betrixaban exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not change the dosage or stop taking it without consulting your doctor.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking, as they may interact with betrixaban.
• Be vigilant for signs of bleeding, such as easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts, nosebleeds, or unusual bleeding from the gums. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms.
• Avoid activities that may increase your risk of bleeding, such as contact sports or using sharp objects.
• Inform healthcare providers (including dentists and surgeons) about your betrixaban use before any medical procedures.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but do not double the dose to catch up. Resume your regular dosing schedule.
• Keep regular appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring of your condition and response to betrixaban therapy.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and advice regarding the use of betrixaban and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about its storage, disposal, or usage.