Bivalirudin

Dosage Forms Available

• Bivalirudin is available as a powder for injection that needs to be reconstituted with sterile water.

• After reconstitution, it is administered intravenously (directly into the vein) by healthcare professionals.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Bivalirudin is meant for use in adults only.

• It is not recommended for use in children or adolescents due to insufficient data on safety and efficacy.

Contraindications

• Bivalirudin is contraindicated in individuals who have active major bleeding.

• Patients with hypersensitivity to Bivalirudin or any component of the product should avoid its use.

• The use of Bivalirudin is also contraindicated in individuals with acute gastroduodenal ulcers or severe uncontrolled hypertension.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Bivalirudin can interact with anticoagulants (such as warfarin), antiplatelet agents (like aspirin), and thrombolytic agents (such as alteplase).

• Before you start any prescription or over-the-counter medications, it is important to consult your doctor, as using these medicines with Bivalirudin may increase the risk of bleeding.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Overdose of Bivalirudin can result in severe bleeding. If suspected, the medicine should be stopped immediately and supportive care should be provided. Haemodialysis may also be used to aid in medicine removal.

• If a dose of Bivalirudin is missed during a scheduled treatment session, it should be administered as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, then the missed dose should be skipped.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• To manage nausea, it may be helpful to take small, frequent meals instead of large ones.

• If you experience headaches, try resting and drinking plenty of fluids.

• In case of hypotension (low blood pressure), try to change positions slowly from lying down to standing up to minimise dizziness and lightheadedness.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Bivalirudin does not directly affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you feel dizzy or lightheaded after the administration of Bivalirudin, it is advised not to drive or operate heavy machinery.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• The use of Bivalirudin during pregnancy should only be considered if necessary after discussing with your doctor.

• It is not known whether Bivalirudin passes into breast milk. Therefore, it is advised to discuss with your doctor before using Bivalirudin while breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with severe renal impairment should use this medicine with caution as dose adjustment may be needed.

• Individuals with a tendency to bleed or a history of severe, uncontrolled hypertension should also use Bivalirudin with caution.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains is recommended for individuals undergoing treatment for heart-related conditions.

• Regular physical activity as recommended by your doctor can also be beneficial.

• Avoid smoking and minimise alcohol consumption as these can increase your risk of developing blood clots.

• Regular monitoring of blood pressure is advised for individuals undergoing treatment for heart conditions.