Evaluating and assessing dabigatran drug interactions.

Dabigatran is a novel oral direct thrombin inhibitor that has been shown to have beneficial outcomes in the prevention of thromboembolic stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. Its advantages compared with warfarin may include decreased laboratory monitoring (e.g., international normalized ratio), minimal cytochrome P450 drug interactions, lack of dietary interactions, and faster onset of action. However, dabigatran is still associated with drug interactions, as will be reviewed through a patient case. Consultant pharmacists should carefully review a patient&s medication profile and evaluate the pros and cons of dabigatran therapy as its use becomes more prevalent.