Type of medicine: anticoagulant (medicine that reduces the chance of blood clots forming); thrombin inhibitor
Generic and brand names: bivalirudin, injection; Angiomax
This medicine reduces the chance of blood clots forming for people with unstable angina (chest pain). The medicine is given by injection to prevent or dissolve blood clots during angioplasty. Angioplasty is a procedure used to unblock a blood vessel.
This medicine may be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider.
Before taking this medicine, tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had:
Tell your healthcare provider if you have recently had surgery or major bleeding problems.
Females of childbearing age: Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine without your healthcare provider's approval.
You will receive a shot in your IV tubing, then a 4 hour IV infusion (slow drip). After the first 4 hour infusion you may receive another treatment. You may also be given aspirin to take by mouth.
There is a risk of bleeding at the spot where you have your IV.
Use a soft brush to brush your teeth. Be careful while shaving, cutting fingernails or toenails, or when using sharp objects. Avoid sports and activities that may cause injuries. If you fall or are injured, contact your healthcare provider right away.
If you need emergency care, surgery, or dental work, tell the healthcare provider or dentist you have received this medicine.
Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.
Life-threatening (Report these to your healthcare provider right away). If you cannot reach your healthcare provider right away, get emergency medical care or call 911 for help): Allergic reaction (hives; itching; rash; trouble breathing; chest pain or tightness in your chest; swelling of your lips, tongue, and throat).
Serious (contact your healthcare provider right away): Heavy bleeding or pain at the IV site, nose bleeds, bleeding gums, black tarry stool, blood in urine, chest pain, severe dizziness, fainting, slow heartbeat, severe headache, vision changes, fever, trouble urinating.
Other: Back pain, headache, nausea, lightheadedness, stomach pain, trouble sleeping, anxiety, nervousness, stomach upset, vomiting.
When you take this medicine with other medicines, it can change the way this or any of the other medicines work. Nonprescription medicines, vitamins, natural remedies, and certain foods may also interact. Using these products together might cause harmful side effects. Talk to your healthcare provider if you are taking:
If you are not sure if your medicines might interact, ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider. Keep a list of all your medicines with you. List all the prescription medicines, nonprescription medicines, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins that you take. Be sure that you tell all healthcare providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.
This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.
Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
Do not share medicines with other people.
