Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 18, 2026

The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation
23:33

The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation

Published on: February 28, 2012

Gastrointestinal disorders and dabigatran

Arthur Hoffman1, P R Galle

  • 1I Med Clinic, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany. AHoff66286@aol.com

Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology
|September 11, 2012
PubMed

Insights

New oral anticoagulants like dabigatran etexilate offer stroke prevention for atrial fibrillation. However, this direct thrombin inhibitor may increase dyspeptic symptoms compared to warfarin.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Anticoagulants are crucial for managing thromboembolic disorders, including stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation.
  • Vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) are established treatments, but new oral anticoagulants (NOACs) are emerging as alternatives.
  • Dabigatran etexilate, a direct thrombin inhibitor, is increasingly recommended in guidelines for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and discuss the potential for dabigatran etexilate to cause dyspeptic symptoms.
  • To explore potential countermeasures for managing dabigatran-induced dyspepsia from a gastroenterologist's viewpoint.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of published data and clinical trial results concerning dabigatran etexilate.
  • Analysis of reported side effect profiles, specifically focusing on gastrointestinal disturbances.
  • Clinical perspective from gastroenterology on managing adverse effects.

Main Results:

  • Published data suggest dabigatran etexilate may be associated with higher rates of dyspeptic symptoms compared to warfarin.
  • Dyspepsia represents a potential side effect profile of dabigatran etexilate.
  • The clinical implications of these findings require further investigation and management strategies.

Conclusions:

  • Dabigatran etexilate presents a viable alternative for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation but may be linked to increased dyspeptic symptoms.
  • Gastroenterologists should be aware of this potential side effect and prepared to manage it.
  • Further research and clinical guidance are needed to address dabigatran-associated dyspepsia effectively.

More Related Videos

A Multicenter MRI Protocol for the Evaluation and Quantification of Deep Vein Thrombosis10:26

A Multicenter MRI Protocol for the Evaluation and Quantification of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Published on: June 2, 2015

Related Concept Videos

Anticoagulant Drugs: Vitamin K Antagonists and Direct Oral Anticoagulants01:18

Anticoagulant Drugs: Vitamin K Antagonists and Direct Oral Anticoagulants

Oral anticoagulants are vital tools in preventing and treating blood clotting disorders. This diverse class of medications can be categorized as vitamin K antagonists, exemplified by warfarin, and direct thrombin inhibitors (DTIs), such as dabigatran, as well as factor Xa inhibitors, including rivaroxaban.
Warfarin, a prominent vitamin K antagonist family member, exerts its effect by inhibiting the enzyme VKORC1 (vitamin K epoxide reductase complex 1). By hindering this enzyme, warfarin...
Factors Influencing Drug Absorption: Disease States and Pharmacology01:25

Factors Influencing Drug Absorption: Disease States and Pharmacology

Multiple disease states can significantly influence the oral drug absorption process by affecting blood flow and the functionality of the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Various GI diseases, including conditions that alter GI motility, such as diarrhea, decreased acid secretions (achlorhydria), and infections, have been associated with reduced drug absorption.
Substances such as alcohol and specific drugs, including antineoplastics, can also negatively impact drug absorption. For instance,...
Disorders of Hemostasis01:24

Disorders of Hemostasis

Hemostasis, the process that stops bleeding after a blood vessel injury, is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the circulatory system. However, disorders of hemostasis can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to either excessive clotting or bleeding. These disorders can be broadly classified into thromboembolic disorders and bleeding disorders.
Thromboembolic Disorders
Two factors primarily cause thromboembolic conditions.
Other Disorders of Digestive System01:30

Other Disorders of Digestive System

The gastrointestinal tract is susceptible to various disorders. If the lower esophageal sphincter is damaged, stomach acid can flow back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation of the lining. This condition is called gastroesophageal reflux disease (known as heartburn) and may cause chest pain and difficulty swallowing. In the stomach, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin, chronic alcohol consumption, bacterial infections such as Helicobacter...
Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders01:20

Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders

Gastrointestinal or GI motility disorders are characterized by irregular gastrointestinal tract movements, disrupting food transit from the mouth to the anus. They are caused by damage or dysfunction in gut muscles or nerves. These disorders can cause symptoms such as severe constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and swallowing difficulties. Disorders can affect any segment of the GI tract and range widely in severity, from common conditions like GERD to life-threatening conditions like...
Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Antimicrobials as Antidiarrheal Agents01:18

Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Antimicrobials as Antidiarrheal Agents

Acute diarrhea, a common gastrointestinal disturbance, is characterized by the rapid evacuation of fluid stools, leading to an excessive weight in fluid. This condition typically arises from disorders affecting intestinal water and electrolyte transport. It can be triggered by an increased osmotic load within the intestine, excessive secretion of electrolytes and water, mucosal exudation of protein and fluid, or altered intestinal motility. The primary risks of acute diarrhea are dehydration...