Drugs & Vitamins

Refludan Active Ingredients: Lepirudin Representative Names: Refludan What is lepirudin injection? What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? How should I use this medicine? What if I miss a dose? What drug(s) may interact with lepirudin? What side effects might I notice from receiving lepirudin? What should I watch for while taking lepirudin? Where can I keep my medicine? What is lepirudin injection? (Back to top) LEPIRUDIN (Refludan®) is an anticoagulant, sometimes called a blood thinner, that is used in the hospital setting. Lepirudin helps to treat or prevent clots in the veins, arteries, lungs, or the heart. Generic lepirudin injections are not yet available. What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? (Back to top) They need to know if you have any of these conditions: •bleeding disorders or hemophilia •bowel disease or diverticulitis •infection of the heart valves •having intramuscular injections •high blood pressure •kidney disease •liver disease •recent surgery •stomach or intestinal ulcers •weak or unstable blood vessels •an unusual or allergic reaction to lepirudin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives •pregnant or trying to get pregnant •breast-feeding How should I use this medicine? (Back to top) Lepirudin is for injection or infusion into a vein in the hospital setting. It is given by a health-care professional. What if I miss a dose? (Back to top) This does not apply. What drug(s) may interact with lepirudin? (Back to top) •agents that dissolve blood clots •antiinflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen (Motrin®) or naproxen (Aleve®) •aspirin and aspirin-like medicines •blood thinners such as warfarin •clopidogrel •dipyridamole •fish oil (omega-3 fatty acids) supplements •some herbal medicines, like garlic, ginger, ginkgo biloba, or horse chestnut supplements •ticlopidine Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines. What side effects might I notice from receiving lepirudin? (Back to top) Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible: •back or stomach pain •black, tarry stools •blood in urine •coughing up blood •difficulty breathing •dizziness or fainting spells •heavy menstrual bleeding •nosebleeds •unusual bruising or bleeding Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): •irritation at the injection site What should I watch for while taking lepirudin? (Back to top) Monitor your skin closely for easy bruising or red spots. Tell your prescriber or health care professional if you notice any unusual bruising or bleeding. If you are going to have surgery, tell your prescriber or health care professional that you have received lepirudin. Be careful to avoid injury while you are receiving lepirudin. Take special care brushing or flossing your teeth. Report any injuries to your prescriber or health care professional. Where can I keep my medicine? (Back to top) Keep out of the reach of children. Store unopened vials between 2—25 degrees C (36—77 degrees F). Use lepirudin before the expiration date given on the container. Last Updated:01/01/2001 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY© GOLD STANDARD MULTIMEDIA INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.