Drug Guide
Betrixaban
Classification
Therapeutic: Anticoagulant, Direct Factor Xa Inhibitor
Pharmacological: Oral anticoagulant, Factor Xa inhibitor
FDA Approved Indications
- Prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in hospitalized patients at risk for thromboembolic complications due to medically ill hospitalized patients
Mechanism of Action
Betrixaban selectively inhibits activity of Factor Xa, reducing thrombin generation and thrombus development.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: 160 mg on day 1, followed by 80 mg once daily with food for 35-42 days
Pediatric: Not approved for pediatric use
Geriatric: Use with caution; dose adjustments not specifically required but renal function should be monitored
Renal Impairment: Adjust dose based on renal function; contraindicated if CrCl <15 mL/min
Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; contraindicated in severe hepatic impairment
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Bioavailability approximately 34%
Distribution: Vd approximately 54 L, protein binding about 55%
Metabolism: Minimal hepatic metabolism; primarily excreted unchanged
Excretion: Predominantly fecal (via biliary excretion); some renal excretion
Half Life: approximately 19-27 hours
Contraindications
- Active pathological bleeding, severe hypersensitivity
Precautions
- Renal impairment, hepatic impairment, elderly patients, patients with increased risk of bleeding
Adverse Reactions - Common
- bleeding, including gastrointestinal bleeding (Common)
- bradyarrhythmia (Uncommon)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- significant bleeding leading to death or disability (Serious, rare)
- hepatotoxicity (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- Other anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, certain NSAIDs
- Rifampin (may reduce efficacy)
Drug-Food Interactions
N/ADrug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor for signs of bleeding, renal function, signs of thrombotic events
Diagnoses:
- Risk for bleeding
Implementation: Administer with food; assess for bleeding regularly; adjust dose based on renal function
Evaluation: Effectiveness evidenced by absence of thromboembolic events; adverse effects management
Patient/Family Teaching
- Report unusual bleeding or bruising
- Take medication as prescribed, with food
- Inform healthcare provider of all medications
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- Risk of bleeding
Genetic Factors: None established
Lab Test Interference: May slightly increase PT/INR but not recommended for monitoring anticoagulation
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Excessive bleeding, hematomas, gastrointestinal hemorrhage
Treatment: Discontinue medication, apply local hemostasis, provide supportive care, consider administration of activated charcoal if ingestion is recent, and consider reversal agents if available and appropriate.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature, 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
Stability: Stable up to the expiration date on the package