Argatroban (ar-GAT-roe-ban)

Treats or prevents blood clots.

Brand Name(s):

Argatroban Novaplus

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
• This medicine is given in a hospital. A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can affect how argatroban works. Tell your doctor if you are taking any medicine that affects how your blood clots, especially the following:
  • A blood thinner, such as warfarin
  • An NSAID pain or arthritis medicine, such as aspirin, diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib
  • Thrombolytic medicine, such as streptokinase

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have hemophilia or any other bleeding problem, a stomach or intestinal ulcer, liver disease, high blood pressure, a history of stroke, or you had a recent surgery or procedure.
• You may bleed and bruise more easily while you are using this medicine. Be extra careful to avoid being bruised, cut, or injured. Brush and floss your teeth gently. Be careful with sharp objects, including razors and fingernail clippers. Do not pick your nose. If you need to blow your nose, blow it gently.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Black, tarry stools, or red or dark brown urine
• Chest pain, fever, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood
• Fast, slow, or uneven heartbeat
• Lightheadedness, fainting
• Numbness or weakness in your arm or leg, or on one side of your body
• Sudden or severe headache, or problems with vision, speech, or walking
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness
• Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting
• Mild bleeding, itching, or rash where the needle is placed

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088