[Goal-directed administration of antidote for reversal of dabigatran anticoagulation]

Goal-directed administration of antidote for reversal of dabigatran anticoagulation Idarucizumab is a monoclonal antibody fragment that acts as an antidote to dabigatran. Idarucizumab is indicated in dabigatran-associated serious bleeds and to reverse dabigatran anticoagulation before acute surgical interventions or invasive medical procedures. The recommended dose of 5 g idarucizumab is sufficient to achieve a lasting restoration of coagulation in most patients. In a number of cases however, notably in deliberate overdoses and in accumulation of dabigatran in renal failure, repeated doses of idarucizumab may be necessary to avoid persisting or rebound anticoagulation. This article gives a brief explanation of the mechanisms responsible for this phenomenon and argues that it should be anticipated. Serial monitoring of APTT or dTT in patients treated with idarucizumab should enable the early detection of treatment failure or rebound anticoagulation and, if clinically indicated, prompt administration of additional doses of antidote.