What it is used for
- Preventing and treating blood clots in people with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia
- Preventing clotting during heart catheter procedures in people who have or are at risk of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia
How it is used
- It is given as an infusion into a vein by medical staff in hospital only
- The doctor sets and adjusts the dose using frequent clotting tests and liver function
- When switching to an anticoagulant by mouth, the doctor follows the tests closely because argatroban affects their results
Possible side effects
- Bleeding such as from the gums or nose, bruising, or blood in the urine or stools
- Nausea or vomiting
- Low blood pressure
- Rarely, allergy such as a rash or breathlessness
Who should not use it
- Active major bleeding
- Allergy to argatroban or any ingredient of the product
Before and while using it
- Tell the medical staff at once about any bleeding, sudden severe headache, black stools or vomiting blood
- People with liver disease need a lower dose and closer monitoring
- Tell the doctor if you have very high blood pressure, recent surgery or injury, or a stomach ulcer
- Heparin in any form should not be given to someone with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia unless a specialist decides
Medicine interactions
- Other anticoagulants and clot-dissolving medicines increase bleeding risk
- Aspirin, antiplatelet medicines and anti-inflammatory painkillers increase bleeding risk
- Warfarin with argatroban raises the INR result, so switching between them follows a careful plan
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant; information is limited and it is used only when the benefit is clear
- Breastfeeding is not advised during treatment unless discussed with the doctor
How to store it
- Hospital staff store it as the leaflet directs, protected from light and not frozen
Get medical help straight away if
- Your face, lips or tongue swell, or you find it hard to breathe.
- You get a severe rash, blistering or peeling skin.
- A side effect worries you or doesn’t go away: contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Questions about this medicine?
Talk to a doctor by video, or send your question by text.
Source: Standard international medicine references
This guide is general information and doesn’t replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without asking them, and always read the leaflet in the pack.