For the first time, an antidote developed specifically for dabigatran successfully reversed the effects of the anti-clotting medication in healthy volunteers, according to research presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2013.
New oral anti-clotting medications such as dabigatran (Pradaxa) are easier to take than warfarin. However, up until now, there have been no specific antidotes available to reverse the effects of these new anti-clotting medications when managing life-threatening bleeding or performing emergency surgery. This study shows some promise for an antidote for dabigatran.
Researchers developed an antibody fragment (Fab) that specifically binds dabigatran and prevents it from inhibiting clot formation.
Fab was given as 1 hour or 5-minute infusions to 145 healthy male volunteers. Immediate, complete and sustained reversal of dabigatran-induced anticoagulation was observed.
The antidote is still under development and is not yet approved for clinical use, researchers said.