Dabigatran Etexilate Capsule
FDA Label NDC 0378-0266

(A) PREMATURE DISCONTINUATION OF DABIGATRAN ETEXILATE CAPSULES INCREASES THE RISK OF THROMBOTIC EVENTS: Premature discontinuation of any oral anticoagulant, including dabigatran etexilate capsules, increases the risk of thrombotic events. If anticoagulation with dabigatran etexilate capsules is discontinued for a reason other than pathological bleeding or completion of a course of therapy, consider coverage with another anticoagulant [see Dosage and Administration (2.6, 2.7, 2.8) and Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

(B) SPINAL/EPIDURAL HEMATOMA: Epidural or spinal hematomas may occur in patients treated with dabigatran etexilate capsules who are receiving neuraxial anesthesia or undergoing spinal puncture. These hematomas may result in long-term or permanent paralysis. Consider these risks when scheduling patients for spinal procedures. Factors that can increase the risk of developing epidural or spinal hematomas in these patients include:

• use of indwelling epidural catheters
• concomitant use of other drugs that affect hemostasis, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), platelet inhibitors, other anticoagulants
• a history of traumatic or repeated epidural or spinal punctures
• a history of spinal deformity or spinal surgery
• optimal timing between the administration of dabigatran etexilate capsules and neuraxial procedures is not known

[see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

  

Monitor patients frequently for signs and symptoms of neurological impairment. If neurological compromise is noted, urgent treatment is necessary [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

  

Consider the benefits and risks before neuraxial intervention in patients anticoagulated or to be anticoagulated [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

Dabigatran etexilate capsules are indicated to reduce the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in adult patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation.

Dabigatran etexilate capsules are indicated for the treatment of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in adult patients who have been treated with a parenteral anticoagulant for 5-10 days.

Dabigatran etexilate capsules are indicated to reduce the risk of recurrence of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in adult patients who have been previously treated.

Dabigatran etexilate capsules are indicated for the prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in adult patients who have undergone hip replacement surgery.

Dabigatran etexilate capsules are indicated for the treatment of venous thromboembolic events (VTE) in pediatric patients 8 to less than 18 years of age who have been treated with a parenteral anticoagulant for at least 5 days [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].

Dabigatran etexilate capsules are indicated to reduce the risk of recurrence of VTE in pediatric patients 8 to less than 18 years of age who have been previously treated [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].

Dabigatran etexilate is available in different dosage forms and not all dosage forms are approved for the same indications and age groups. In addition, there are differences between the dosage forms with respect to dosing due to differences in bioavailability. Do not substitute different dosage forms on a milligram-to-milligram basis and do not combine more than one dosage form to achieve the total dose [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

For patients with creatinine clearance (CrCl) > 30 mL/min, the recommended dosage of dabigatran etexilate capsules is 150 mg taken orally, twice daily. For patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl 15-30 mL/min), the recommended dosage of dabigatran etexilate capsules is 75 mg twice daily [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Dosing recommendations for patients with a CrCl < 15 mL/min or on dialysis cannot be provided.

Reduce the dosage of dabigatran etexilate capsules to 75 mg twice daily when dronedarone or systemic ketoconazole is co-administered with dabigatran etexilate capsules in patients with moderate renal impairment (CrCl 30-50 mL/min). Avoid use of dabigatran etexilate capsules and P-gp inhibitors in patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl 15-30 mL/min) [see Drug Interactions (7.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

No dose adjustment of dabigatran etexilate capsules is recommended in patients with mild or moderate renal impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Reduce the dose of dabigatran etexilate capsules in patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl 15-30 mL/min) [see Dosage and Administration (2.2, 2.4) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Dosing recommendations for patients with CrCl < 15 mL/min or on dialysis cannot be provided.

Adjust dose appropriately in patients with renal impairment receiving concomitant P-gp inhibitors [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5), Drug Interactions (7.1), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

For patients with CrCl > 30 mL/min, the recommended dosage of dabigatran etexilate capsules is 150 mg taken orally, twice daily, after 5-10 days of parenteral anticoagulation. Dosing recommendations for patients with a CrCl ≤ 30 mL/min or on dialysis cannot be provided [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

For patients with CrCl > 30 mL/min, the recommended dosage of dabigatran etexilate capsules is 150 mg taken orally, twice daily after previous treatment. Dosing recommendations for patients with a CrCl ≤ 30 mL/min or on dialysis cannot be provided [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

For patients with CrCl > 30 mL/min, the recommended dosage of dabigatran etexilate capsules is 110 mg taken orally 1-4 hours after surgery and after hemostasis has been achieved, then 220 mg taken once daily for 28-35 days. If dabigatran etexilate capsules are not started on the day of surgery, after hemostasis has been achieved initiate treatment with 220 mg once daily. Dosing recommendations for patients with a CrCl ≤ 30 mL/min or on dialysis cannot be provided [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.2, 12.3)].

Avoid use of dabigatran etexilate capsules and concomitant P-gp inhibitors in patients with CrCl < 50 mL/min [see Drug Interactions (7.3) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

Patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl < 30 mL/min) were excluded from RE-NOVATE and RE-NOVATE II.

Dosing recommendations for patients with CrCl < 30 mL/min or on dialysis cannot be provided.

Avoid use of dabigatran etexilate capsules with concomitant P-gp inhibitors in patients with CrCl < 50 mL/min [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5), Drug Interactions (7.3) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.2, 12.3)].

Treatment and Reduction in the Risk of Recurrence of VTE in Pediatric Patients dabigatran etexilate has not been studied in pediatric patients with eGFR < 50 mL/min/1.73 m². Reduced renal function could increase exposure. Dosing recommendations cannot be provided for treatment of these patients. Avoid use of dabigatran etexilate capsules in these patients [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)].

Dabigatran etexilate capsules can be used in pediatric patients aged 8 to less than 18 years of age who are able to swallow the capsules whole. Other age-appropriate pediatric dosage forms of dabigatran etexilate are available for pediatric patients less than 8 years of age. For the treatment of VTE in pediatric patients, initiate treatment following treatment with a parenteral anticoagulant for at least 5 days. For reduction in risk of recurrence of VTE, initiate treatment following previous treatment.

Dabigatran etexilate capsules is dosed orally twice daily, one dose in the morning and one dose in the evening, at approximately the same time every day. The dosing interval should be as close to 12 hours as possible.

The recommended dosage of dabigatran etexilate capsules for the treatment of or reducing the risk of VTE in pediatric patients 8 to less than 18 years of age is based on the patient’s actual weight as shown in Table 1 below. Administer dabigatran etexilate capsules twice daily. Adjust the dosage according to actual weight as treatment progresses [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)].

Assess renal function prior to initiation of treatment with dabigatran etexilate capsules. Periodically assess renal function as clinically indicated (i.e., more frequently in clinical situations that may be associated with a decline in renal function) and adjust therapy accordingly. Discontinue dabigatran etexilate capsules in patients who develop acute renal failure while on dabigatran etexilate capsules and consider alternative anticoagulant therapy.

Generally, in adult patients, the extent of anticoagulation does not need to be assessed. When necessary, use aPTT or ECT, and not INR, to assess for anticoagulant activity in adult patients on dabigatran etexilate capsules [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)].

In patients with moderate renal impairment (CrCl 30-50 mL/min), concomitant use of the P-gp inhibitor dronedarone or systemic ketoconazole can be expected to produce dabigatran exposure similar to that observed in severe renal impairment. Reduce the dosage of dabigatran etexilate capsules to 75 mg twice daily [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5), Drug Interactions (7.1) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

The RE-LY (Randomized Evaluation of Long-term Anticoagulant Therapy) study provided safety information on the use of two doses of dabigatran etexilate capsules and warfarin [see Clinical Studies (14.1)]. The numbers of patients and their exposures are described in Table 2. Limited information is presented on the 110 mg dosing arm because this dose is not approved.

Drug Discontinuation in RE-LY: The rates of adverse reactions leading to treatment discontinuation were 21% for dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg and 16% for warfarin. The most frequent adverse reactions leading to discontinuation of dabigatran etexilate capsules were bleeding and gastrointestinal events (i.e., dyspepsia, nausea, upper abdominal pain, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, and diarrhea).

Bleeding:[see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]

Table 3 shows the number of adjudicated major bleeding events during the treatment period in the RE-LY study, with the bleeding rate per 100 subject-years (%). Major bleeding is defined as bleeding accompanied by one or more of the following: a decrease in hemoglobin of ≥ 2 g/dL, a transfusion of ≥ 2 units of packed red blood cells, bleeding at a critical site or with a fatal outcome. Intracranial hemorrhage included intracerebral (hemorrhagic stroke), subarachnoid, and subdural bleeds.

There was a higher rate of any gastrointestinal bleeds in patients receiving dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg than in patients receiving warfarin (6.6% vs 4.2%, respectively).

The risk of major bleeds was similar with dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg and warfarin across major subgroups defined by baseline characteristics (see Figure 1), with the exception of age, where there was a trend toward a higher incidence of major bleeding on dabigatran etexilate capsules (hazard ratio 1.2, 95% CI: 1.0 to 1.5) for patients ≥ 75 years of age.

Figure 1. Adjudicated Major Bleeding By Baseline Characteristics Including Hemorrhagic Stroke Treated Patients (Image 02)

Note: The figure above presents effects in various subgroups all of which are baseline characteristics and all of which were pre-specified. The 95% confidence limits that are shown do not take into account how many comparisons were made, nor do they reflect the effect of a particular factor after adjustment for all other factors. Apparent homogeneity or heterogeneity among groups should not be over-interpreted.

Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions: Patients on dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg had an increased incidence of gastrointestinal adverse reactions (35% vs 24% on warfarin). These were commonly dyspepsia (including abdominal pain upper, abdominal pain, abdominal discomfort, and epigastric discomfort) and gastritis-like symptoms (including GERD, esophagitis, erosive gastritis, gastric hemorrhage, hemorrhagic gastritis, hemorrhagic erosive gastritis, and gastrointestinal ulcer).

Hypersensitivity Reactions: In the RE-LY study, drug hypersensitivity (including urticaria, rash, and pruritus), allergic edema, anaphylactic reaction, and anaphylactic shock were reported in < 0.1% of patients receiving dabigatran etexilate capsules.

Treatment and Reduction in the Risk of Recurrence of Deep Venous Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism: Dabigatran etexilate capsules were studied in 4,387 patients in 4 pivotal, parallel, randomized, double-blind trials. Three of these trials were active-controlled (warfarin) (RE-COVER, RE-COVER II, and RE-MEDY), and one study (RE-SONATE) was placebo-controlled. The demographic characteristics were similar among the 4 pivotal studies and between the treatment groups within these studies. Approximately 60% of the treated patients were male, with a mean age of 55.1 years. The majority of the patients were white (87.7%), 10.3% were Asian, and 1.9% were black with a mean CrCl of 105.6 mL/min.

Bleeding events for the 4 pivotal studies were classified as major bleeding events if at least one of the following criteria applied: fatal bleeding, symptomatic bleeding in a critical area or organ (intraocular, intracranial, intraspinal or intramuscular with compartment syndrome, retroperitoneal bleeding, intra-articular bleeding, or pericardial bleeding), bleeding causing a fall in hemoglobin level of 2.0 g/dL (1.24 mmol/L or more, or leading to transfusion of 2 or more units of whole blood or red cells).

RE-COVER and RE-COVER II studies compared dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg twice daily and warfarin for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Patients received 5-10 days of an approved parenteral anticoagulant therapy followed by 6 months, with mean exposure of 164 days, of oral only treatment; warfarin was overlapped with parenteral therapy. Table 4 shows the number of patients experiencing bleeding events in the pooled analysis of RE-COVER and RE-COVER II studies during the full treatment including parenteral and oral only treatment periods after randomization.

Dosing recommendations for patients with CrCl ≤ 30 mL/min cannot be provided. Avoid use of concomitant P-gp inhibitors in patients with CrCl < 50 mL/min [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5), Drug Interactions (7.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Dabigatran etexilate capsules were studied in 4,387 patients in 4 pivotal, parallel, randomized, double-blind trials. Three of these trials were active-controlled (warfarin) (RE-COVER, RE-COVER II, and RE-MEDY), and one study (RE-SONATE) was placebo-controlled. The demographic characteristics were similar among the 4 pivotal studies and between the treatment groups within these studies. Approximately 60% of the treated patients were male, with a mean age of 55.1 years. The majority of the patients were white (87.7%), 10.3% were Asian, and 1.9% were black with a mean CrCl of 105.6 mL/min.

Bleeding events for the 4 pivotal studies were classified as major bleeding events if at least one of the following criteria applied: fatal bleeding, symptomatic bleeding in a critical area or organ (intraocular, intracranial, intraspinal or intramuscular with compartment syndrome, retroperitoneal bleeding, intra-articular bleeding, or pericardial bleeding), bleeding causing a fall in hemoglobin level of 2.0 g/dL (1.24 mmol/L or more, or leading to transfusion of 2 or more units of whole blood or red cells).

RE-COVER and RE-COVER II studies compared dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg twice daily and warfarin for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Patients received 5-10 days of an approved parenteral anticoagulant therapy followed by 6 months, with mean exposure of 164 days, of oral only treatment; warfarin was overlapped with parenteral therapy. Table 4 shows the number of patients experiencing bleeding events in the pooled analysis of RE-COVER and RE-COVER II studies during the full treatment including parenteral and oral only treatment periods after randomization.

The rate of any gastrointestinal bleeds in patients receiving dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg in the full treatment period was 3.1% (2.4% on warfarin).

The RE-MEDY and RE-SONATE studies provided safety information on the use of dabigatran etexilate capsules for the reduction in the risk of recurrence of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.

RE-MEDY was an active-controlled study (warfarin) in which 1,430 patients received dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg twice daily following 3 to 12 months of oral anticoagulant regimen. Patients in the treatment studies who rolled over into the RE-MEDY study had a combined treatment duration of up to more than 3 years, with mean exposure of 473 days. Table 5 shows the number of patients experiencing bleeding events in the study.

In the RE-MEDY study, the rate of any gastrointestinal bleeds in patients receiving dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg was 3.1% (2.2% on warfarin).

RE-SONATE was a placebo-controlled study in which 684 patients received dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg twice daily following 6 to 18 months of oral anticoagulant regimen. Patients in the treatment studies who rolled over into the RE-SONATE study had combined treatment duration up to 9 months, with mean exposure of 165 days. Table 6 shows the number of patients experiencing bleeding events in the study.

In the RE-SONATE study, the rate of any gastrointestinal bleeds in patients receiving dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg was 0.7% (0.3% on placebo).

Clinical Myocardial Infarction Events: In the active-controlled VTE studies, a higher rate of clinical myocardial infarction was reported in patients who received dabigatran etexilate capsules [20 (0.66 per 100 patient-years)] than in those who received warfarin [5 (0.17 per 100 patient-years)]. In the placebo-controlled study, a similar rate of nonfatal and fatal clinical myocardial infarction was reported in patients who received dabigatran etexilate capsules [1 (0.32 per 100 patient-years)] and in those who received placebo [1 (0.34 per 100 patient-years)].

Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions: In the four pivotal studies, patients on dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg had a similar incidence of gastrointestinal adverse reactions (24.7% vs 22.7% on warfarin). Dyspepsia (including abdominal pain upper, abdominal pain, abdominal discomfort, and epigastric discomfort) occurred in patients on dabigatran etexilate capsules in 7.5% vs 5.5% on warfarin, and gastritis-like symptoms (including gastritis, GERD, esophagitis, erosive gastritis and gastric hemorrhage) occurred at 3.0% vs 1.7%, respectively.

Hypersensitivity Reactions: In the 4 pivotal studies, drug hypersensitivity (including urticaria, rash, and pruritus), allergic edema, anaphylactic reaction, and anaphylactic shock were reported in 0.1% of patients receiving dabigatran etexilate capsules.

Dosing recommendations for patients with CrCl ≤ 30 mL/min or on dialysis cannot be provided. Avoid use of concomitant P-gp inhibitors in patients with CrCl < 50 mL/min [see Dosage and Administration (2.5), Warnings and Precautions (5.5), Drug Interactions (7.3) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.2, 12.3)].

Dabigatran etexilate capsules were studied in 5,476 patients, randomized and treated in two double-blind, active-controlled non-inferiority trials (RE-NOVATE and RE-NOVATE II). The demographic characteristics were similar across the two studies and between the treatment groups within these studies. Approximately 45.3% of the treated patients were male, with a mean age of 63.2 years. The majority of the patients were white (96.1%), 3.6% were Asian, and 0.3% were black with a mean CrCl of 92 mL/min.

Bleeding events for the RE-NOVATE and RE-NOVATE II studies were classified as major bleeding events if at least one of the following criteria applied: fatal bleeding, symptomatic bleeding in a critical area or organ (intraocular, intracranial, intraspinal or retroperitoneal bleeding), bleeding causing a fall in hemoglobin level of 2.0 g/dL (1.24 mmol/L) or more, or leading to transfusion of 2 or more units of whole blood or red cells, requiring treatment cessation or leading to re-operation.

The RE-NOVATE study compared dabigatran etexilate capsules 75 mg taken orally 1-4 hours after surgery followed by 150 mg once daily, dabigatran etexilate capsules 110 mg taken orally 1-4 hours after surgery followed by 220 mg once daily and subcutaneous enoxaparin 40 mg once daily initiated the evening before surgery for the prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in patients who had undergone hip replacement surgery. The RE-NOVATE II study compared dabigatran etexilate capsules 110 mg taken orally 1-4 hours after surgery followed by 220 mg once daily and subcutaneous enoxaparin 40 mg once daily initiated the evening before surgery for the prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in patients who had undergone hip replacement surgery. In the RE-NOVATE and RE-NOVATE II studies, patients received 28-35 days of dabigatran etexilate capsules or enoxaparin with median exposure of 33 days. Tables 7 and 8 show the number of patients experiencing bleeding events in the analysis of RE-NOVATE and RE-NOVATE II.

In the two studies, the rate of major gastrointestinal bleeds in patients receiving dabigatran etexilate capsules and enoxaparin was the same (0.1%) and for any gastrointestinal bleeds was 1.4% for dabigatran etexilate capsules 220 mg and 0.9% for enoxaparin.

Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions: In the two studies, the incidence of gastrointestinal adverse reactions for patients on dabigatran etexilate capsules 220 mg and enoxaparin was 39.5% and 39.5%, respectively. Dyspepsia (including abdominal pain upper, abdominal pain, abdominal discomfort, and epigastric discomfort) occurred in patients on dabigatran etexilate capsules 220 mg in 4.1% vs. 3.8% on enoxaparin, and gastritis-like symptoms (including gastritis, GERD, esophagitis, erosive gastritis and gastric hemorrhage) occurred at 0.6% vs 1.0%, respectively.

Hypersensitivity Reactions: In the two studies, drug hypersensitivity (such as urticaria, rash, and pruritus) was reported in 0.3% of patients receiving dabigatran etexilate capsules 220 mg.

Clinical Myocardial Infarction Events: In the two studies, clinical myocardial infarction was reported in 2 (0.1%) of patients who received dabigatran etexilate capsules 220 mg and 6 (0.3%) of patients who received enoxaparin.

Treatment and Reduction in Risk of Recurrence of VTE in Pediatric Patients: Due to lack of data in pediatric patients with eGFR < 50 mL/min/1.73 m² and the risk of increased exposure, avoid use of dabigatran etexilate capsules in these patients. Prior to the initiation of treatment with dabigatran etexilate capsules, estimate the glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) using the Schwartz formula: eGFR (Schwartz) = (0.413 x height in cm) / serum creatinine in mg/dL.

Treat patients with an eGFR > 50 mL/min/1.73 m² with the dosage according to Table 1 [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].

Dabigatran etexilate capsules should be swallowed whole. Dabigatran etexilate capsules should be taken with a full glass of water. Breaking, chewing, or emptying the contents of the capsule can result in increased exposure [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

If a dose of dabigatran etexilate capsules is not taken at the scheduled time, the dose should be taken as soon as possible on the same day; the missed dose should be skipped if it cannot be taken at least 6 hours before the next scheduled dose. The dose of dabigatran etexilate capsules should not be doubled to make up for a missed dose.

Consider administration with food if gastrointestinal distress occurs with dabigatran etexilate capsules.

When converting patients from warfarin therapy to dabigatran etexilate capsules, discontinue warfarin and start dabigatran etexilate capsules when the INR is below 2.0.

When converting from dabigatran etexilate capsules to warfarin, adjust the starting time of warfarin as follows:

Adults:

• For CrCl ≥ 50 mL/min, start warfarin 3 days before discontinuing dabigatran etexilate capsules.
• For CrCl 30-50 mL/min, start warfarin 2 days before discontinuing dabigatran etexilate capsules.
• For CrCl 15-30 mL/min, start warfarin 1 day before discontinuing dabigatran etexilate capsules.
• For CrCl < 15 mL/min, no recommendations can be made.

Pediatrics:

• For eGFR ≥ 50 mL/min/1.73 m², start warfarin 3 days before discontinuing dabigatran etexilate capsules.
• Pediatric patients with an eGFR < 50 mL/min/1.73 m² have not been studied. Avoid use of dabigatran etexilate capsules in these patients.

Because dabigatran etexilate capsules can increase INR, the INR will better reflect warfarin’s effect only after dabigatran etexilate capsules have been stopped for at least 2 days [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)].

For adult and pediatric patients currently receiving a parenteral anticoagulant, start dabigatran etexilate capsules 0 to 2 hours before the time that the next dose of the parenteral drug was to have been administered or at the time of discontinuation of a continuously administered parenteral drug (e.g., intravenous unfractionated heparin).

For adult patients currently taking dabigatran etexilate capsules, wait 12 hours (CrCl ≥ 30 mL/min) or 24 hours (CrCl < 30 mL/min) after the last dose of dabigatran etexilate capsules before initiating treatment with a parenteral anticoagulant [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

For pediatric patients currently taking dabigatran etexilate capsules, wait 12 hours after the last dose before switching to a parenteral anticoagulant.

If possible, discontinue dabigatran etexilate capsules in adults 1 to 2 days (CrCl ≥ 50 mL/min) or 3 to 5 days (CrCl < 50 mL/min) before invasive or surgical procedures because of the increased risk of bleeding. Consider longer times for patients undergoing major surgery, spinal puncture, or placement of a spinal or epidural catheter or port, in whom complete hemostasis may be required [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

For pediatric patients, discontinue dabigatran etexilate capsules 24 hours before an elective surgery (eGFR > 80 mL/min/1.73 m²) or 2 days before an elective surgery (eGFR 50-80 mL/min/1.73 m²). Pediatric patients with an eGFR <50 mL/min/1.73 m² have not been studied, avoid use of dabigatran etexilate capsules in these patients.

If surgery cannot be delayed, there is an increased risk of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. This risk of bleeding should be weighed against the urgency of intervention [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.3)]. Use a specific reversal agent (idarucizumab) in case of emergency surgery or urgent procedures when reversal of the anticoagulant effect of dabigatran is needed in adults. Efficacy and safety of idarucizumab have not been established in pediatric patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Refer to the idarucizumab prescribing information for additional information. Restart dabigatran etexilate capsules as soon as medically appropriate.

Dabigatran Etexilate Capsules are available containing 86.48 mg or 172.95 mg of dabigatran etexilate mesylate equivalent to 75 mg or 150 mg of dabigatran etexilate, respectively.

• The 75 mg capsules are hard-shell hypromellose capsules with a white opaque cap and a white opaque body filled with white to off-white powder. The capsules are axially printed with MYLAN over DE 75 in black ink on both the cap and body.
• The 150 mg capsules are hard-shell hypromellose capsules with a light purple opaque cap and a white opaque body filled with white to off-white powder. The capsules are axially printed with MYLAN over DE 150 in black ink on both the cap and body.

Dabigatran etexilate capsules are contraindicated in patients with:

• Active pathological bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Adverse Reactions (6.1)]
• History of a serious hypersensitivity reaction to dabigatran, dabigatran etexilate, or to one of the excipients of the product (e.g., anaphylactic reaction or anaphylactic shock) [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]
• Mechanical prosthetic heart valve [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]

Premature discontinuation of any oral anticoagulant, including dabigatran etexilate capsules, in the absence of adequate alternative anticoagulation increases the risk of thrombotic events. If dabigatran etexilate capsules are discontinued for a reason other than pathological bleeding or completion of a course of therapy, consider coverage with another anticoagulant and restart dabigatran etexilate capsules as soon as medically appropriate [see Dosage and Administration (2.6, 2.7, 2.8)].

Dabigatran etexilate capsules increase the risk of bleeding and can cause significant and, sometimes, fatal bleeding. Promptly evaluate any signs or symptoms of blood loss (e.g., a drop in hemoglobin and/or hematocrit or hypotension). Discontinue dabigatran etexilate capsules in patients with active pathological bleeding [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)].

Risk factors for bleeding include the concomitant use of other drugs that increase the risk of bleeding (e.g., anti-platelet agents, heparin, fibrinolytic therapy, and chronic use of NSAIDs). Dabigatran etexilate capsule’s anticoagulant activity and half-life are increased in patients with renal impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)].

In adults, a specific reversal agent (idarucizumab) for dabigatran etexilate capsules is available when reversal of the anticoagulant effect of dabigatran is needed:

• For emergency surgery/urgent procedures
• In life-threatening or uncontrolled bleeding

In pediatric patients, the efficacy and safety of idarucizumab have not been established.

Hemodialysis can remove dabigatran; however, the clinical experience supporting the use of hemodialysis as a treatment for bleeding is limited [see Overdosage (10)]. Prothrombin complex concentrates, or recombinant Factor VIIa may be considered but their use has not been evaluated in clinical trials. Protamine sulfate and vitamin K are not expected to affect the anticoagulant activity of dabigatran. Consider administration of platelet concentrates in cases where thrombocytopenia is present or long-acting antiplatelet drugs have been used.

When neuraxial anesthesia (spinal/epidural anesthesia) or spinal puncture is employed, patients treated with anticoagulant agents are at risk of developing an epidural or spinal hematoma which can result in long-term or permanent paralysis [see Boxed Warning].

To reduce the potential risk of bleeding associated with the concurrent use of dabigatran and epidural or spinal anesthesia/analgesia or spinal puncture, consider the pharmacokinetic profile of dabigatran [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Placement or removal of an epidural catheter or lumbar puncture is best performed when the anticoagulant effect of dabigatran is low; however, the exact timing to reach a sufficiently low anticoagulant effect in each patient is not known.

Should the physician decide to administer anticoagulation in the context of epidural or spinal anesthesia/analgesia or lumbar puncture, monitor frequently to detect any signs or symptoms of neurological impairment, such as midline back pain, sensory and motor deficits (numbness, tingling, or weakness in lower limbs), bowel and/or bladder dysfunction. Instruct patients to immediately report if they experience any of the above signs or symptoms. If signs or symptoms of spinal hematoma are suspected, initiate urgent diagnosis and treatment including consideration for spinal cord decompression even though such treatment may not prevent or reverse neurological sequelae.

The safety and efficacy of dabigatran etexilate capsules in adult patients with bileaflet mechanical prosthetic heart valves was evaluated in the RE-ALIGN trial, in which patients with bileaflet mechanical prosthetic heart valves (recently implanted or implanted more than three months prior to enrollment) were randomized to dose-adjusted warfarin or 150 mg, 220 mg, or 300 mg of dabigatran etexilate capsules twice a day. RE-ALIGN was terminated early due to the occurrence of significantly more thromboembolic events (valve thrombosis, stroke, transient ischemic attack, and myocardial infarction) and an excess of major bleeding (predominantly post-operative pericardial effusions requiring intervention for hemodynamic compromise) in the dabigatran etexilate capsules treatment arm as compared to the warfarin treatment arm. These bleeding and thromboembolic events were seen both in patients who were initiated on dabigatran etexilate capsules postoperatively within three days of mechanical bileaflet valve implantation, as well as in patients whose valves had been implanted more than three months prior to enrollment. Therefore, the use of dabigatran etexilate capsules is contraindicated in all patients with mechanical prosthetic valves [see Contraindications (4)].

The use of dabigatran etexilate capsules for the prophylaxis of thromboembolic events in patients with atrial fibrillation in the setting of other forms of valvular heart disease, including the presence of a bioprosthetic heart valve, has not been studied and is not recommended.

The concomitant use of dabigatran etexilate capsules with P-gp inducers (e.g., rifampin) reduces exposure to dabigatran and should generally be avoided [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

P-gp inhibition and impaired renal function are the major independent factors that result in increased exposure to dabigatran [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Concomitant use of P-gp inhibitors in patients with renal impairment is expected to produce increased exposure of dabigatran compared to that seen with either factor alone.

Avoid use of dabigatran etexilate capsules and concomitant P-gp inhibitors in patients with CrCl < 50 mL/min [see Drug Interactions (7.2) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

Patients with severe renal impairment (CrC1 ≤ 30 mL/min) were excluded from RE-COVER.

Dosing recommendations for patients with CrCl ≤ 30 mL/min or on dialysis cannot be provided. Avoid use of dabigatran etexilate capsules with concomitant P-gp inhibitors in patients with CrCl < 50 mL/min [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5), Drug Interactions (7.2), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

The concomitant use of dabigatran etexilate capsules with P-gp-inhibitors has not been studied in pediatric patients but may increase exposure to dabigatran.

Direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs), including dabigatran etexilate capsules, are not recommended for use in patients with triple-positive antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). For patients with APS (especially those who are triple-positive [positive for lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin, and anti-beta 2-glycoprotein I antibodies]), treatment with DOACs has been associated with increased rates of recurrent thrombotic events compared with vitamin K antagonist therapy.

The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling:

• Increased Risk of Thrombotic Events after Premature Discontinuation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]
• Risk of Bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]
• Spinal/Epidural Anesthesia or Puncture [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]
• Thromboembolic and Bleeding Events in Patients with Prosthetic Heart Valves [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]
• Increased Risk of Thrombosis in Patients with Triple-Positive Antiphospholipid Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)]

The most serious adverse reactions reported with dabigatran etexilate capsules were related to bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reactions rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

The safety of dabigatran etexilate in the treatment of VTE in pediatric patients was studied in one phase III trial (DIVERSITY). The DIVERSITY study was a randomized, open-label, active-controlled, parallel-group trial comparing dabigatran etexilate with standard of care – SOC (vitamin K antagonists, low molecular weight heparin, or fondaparinux). There were 266 pediatric patients who received study treatment, 176 patients treated with dabigatran etexilate and 90 patients treated with SOC. Patients on dabigatran etexilate received age- and weight-adjusted dosages of an age-appropriate formulation of dabigatran etexilate (capsules, pellets, or oral solution) twice daily.

Patients had a median age of 14 years (range: 0-17 years), 92% were white, and half the patients were male (50%). Following at least 5 days of parenteral anticoagulant therapy, the median duration of treatment with dabigatran etexilate was 85 days (range: 1-105). Patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 50 mL/min/1.73m² were excluded from the trial.

Bleeding: Data on adjudicated major bleeding, clinically relevant non-major (CRNM) bleeding and minor bleeding events, for the dabigatran etexilate group and the SOC group in the DIVERSITY study, are reported in Table 9. There was no statistically significant difference in the time to first major bleeding event.

Site-specific bleeding rates were comparable between the two arms, with the exception of the rate of any gastrointestinal bleeds (5.7% in dabigatran etexilate arm vs 1.8% in SOC arm).

Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions: The incidence of gastrointestinal adverse reactions for patients on dabigatran etexilate and SOC was 32% and 12%, respectively, with the following occurring in ≥ 5% of patients taking dabigatran etexilate: dyspepsia (including term gastro-esophageal reflux disease, gastric pH decreased and esophagitis) in 9% (vs 2%), upper abdominal pain in 5% (vs 1%), vomiting in 8% (vs 2%), nausea 5% (vs 4%), and diarrhea 5% (vs 1%).

The safety of dabigatran etexilate in the reduction in the risk of recurrence of VTE in pediatric patients was studied in one open-label single-arm trial (Study 2). Study 2 enrolled patients who required further anticoagulation due to the presence of a clinical risk factor after completing the initial treatment for confirmed VTE (for at least 3 months) or after completing the DIVERSITY study and received dabigatran etexilate until the clinical risk factor resolved, or up to a maximum of 12 months. There were 213 pediatric patients treated with dabigatran etexilate, in a similar fashion as in the DIVERSITY trial.

Patients had a median age of 14 years (range: 0-18 years), 91% were white, and 55% of patients were male. Patients previously enrolled on DIVERSITY accounted for 43% of patients enrolled on Study 2 (29% from dabigatran etexilate arm and 14% from SOC arm). The median duration of treatment with dabigatran etexilate in Study 2 was 42 weeks (range: 0-56 weeks), with 45% of patients completing the 12-month planned duration, 17% stopping due to resolution of VTE risk factors, 12% stopping due to failure to attain target dabigatran concentration and 6% had an adverse event leading to discontinuation.

During the on-treatment period of Study 2, 3 patients (1.4%) had a major bleeding event, 3 patients (1.4%) had a clinically relevant non-major bleeding event, and 44 patients (20%) had a minor bleeding event. The most common drug-related adverse reactions were dyspepsia (5%), epistaxis (3.3%), nausea (3.3%) and menorrhagia (2.8%).

The adverse reaction profile in pediatric patients was generally consistent with that of adult patients.

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of dabigatran etexilate capsules. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: Agranulocytosis, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia

Gastrointestinal Disorders: Esophageal ulcer

Immune System Disorders: Angioedema

Renal and Urinary Disorders: Anticoagulant-related nephropathy

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Alopecia

The concomitant use of dabigatran etexilate capsules with P-gp inducers (e.g., rifampin) reduces exposure to dabigatran and should generally be avoided [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

P-gp inhibition and impaired renal function are the major independent factors that result in increased exposure to dabigatran [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Concomitant use of P-gp inhibitors in patients with renal impairment is expected to produce increased exposure of dabigatran compared to that seen with either factor alone.

In patients with moderate renal impairment (CrCl 30-50 mL/min), reduce the dosage of dabigatran etexilate capsules to 75 mg twice daily when administered concomitantly with the P-gp inhibitors dronedarone or systemic ketoconazole. The use of the P-gp inhibitors verapamil, amiodarone, quinidine, clarithromycin, and ticagrelor does not require a dosage adjustment of dabigatran etexilate capsules. These results should not be extrapolated to other P-gp inhibitors [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5), Use in Specific Populations (8.6), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

The concomitant use of dabigatran etexilate capsules and P-gp inhibitors in patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl 15-30 mL/min) should be avoided [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5), Use in Specific Populations (8.6), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Avoid use of dabigatran etexilate capsules and P-gp inhibitors in patients with CrCl < 50 mL/min [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5), Use in Specific Populations (8.6), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

In patients with CrCl ≥ 50 mL/min who have concomitant administration of P-gp inhibitors such as dronedarone or systemic ketoconazole, it may be helpful to separate the timing of administration of dabigatran etexilate capsules and the P-gp inhibitor by several hours. The concomitant use of dabigatran etexilate capsules and P-gp inhibitors in patients with CrCl < 50 mL/min should be avoided [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5), Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.2, 12.3)].

The concomitant use of dabigatran etexilate capsules with P-gp inhibitors has not been studied in pediatric patients but may increase exposure to dabigatran [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].

The limited available data on dabigatran etexilate capsules use in pregnant women are insufficient to determine drug-associated risks for adverse developmental outcomes. There are risks to the mother associated with untreated venous thromboembolism in pregnancy and a risk of hemorrhage in the mother and fetus associated with the use of anticoagulants (see Clinical Considerations). In pregnant rats treated from implantation until weaning, dabigatran increased the number of dead offspring and caused excess vaginal/uterine bleeding close to parturition at an exposure 2.6 times the human exposure. At a similar exposure, dabigatran decreased the number of implantations when rats were treated prior to mating and up to implantation (gestation Day 6). Dabigatran administered to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis up to exposures 8 and 13 times the human exposure, respectively, did not induce major malformations. However, the incidence of delayed or irregular ossification of fetal skull bones and vertebrae was increased in the rat (see Data).

The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2%-4% and 15%-20%, respectively.

There are no data on the presence of dabigatran in human milk, the effects on the breastfed child, or on milk production. Dabigatran and/or its metabolites were present in rat milk. Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with dabigatran etexilate capsules.

Pregnancy confers an increased risk for thromboembolism that is higher for women with underlying thromboembolic disease and certain high-risk pregnancy conditions. Published data describe that women with a previous history of venous thrombosis are at high risk for recurrence during pregnancy.

Use of anticoagulants, including dabigatran etexilate capsules, may increase the risk of bleeding in the fetus and neonate. Monitor neonates for bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

All patients receiving anticoagulants, including pregnant women, are at risk for bleeding. Dabigatran etexilate capsules use during labor or delivery in women who are receiving neuraxial anesthesia may result in epidural or spinal hematomas. Consider discontinuation or use of shorter acting anticoagulant as delivery approaches [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.3)].

Dabigatran has been shown to decrease the number of implantations when male and female rats were treated at a dosage of 70 mg/kg (about 2.6 to 3.0 times the human exposure at MRHD of 300 mg/day based on area under the curve [AUC] comparisons) prior to mating and up to implantation (gestation Day 6). Treatment of pregnant rats after implantation with dabigatran at the same dose increased the number of dead offspring and caused excess vaginal/uterine bleeding close to parturition. Dabigatran administered to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis up to maternally toxic doses of 200 mg/kg (8 and 13 times the human exposure, respectively, at a MRHD of 300 mg/day based on AUC comparisons) did not induce major malformations, but increased the incidence of delayed or irregular ossification of fetal skull bones and vertebrae in the rat.

Death of offspring and mother rats during labor in association with uterine bleeding occurred during treatment of pregnant rats from implantation (gestation Day 7) to weaning (lactation Day 21) with dabigatran at a dose of 70 mg/kg (about 2.6 times the human exposure at MRHD of 300 mg/day based on AUC comparisons).

Females of reproductive potential requiring anticoagulation should discuss pregnancy planning with their physician.

The risk of clinically significant uterine bleeding, potentially requiring gynecological surgical interventions, identified with oral anticoagulants including dabigatran etexilate capsules should be assessed in females of reproductive potential and those with abnormal uterine bleeding.

The safety and effectiveness of dabigatran etexilate capsules for the treatment and the reduction in risk of recurrence of venous thromboembolism have been established in pediatric patients 8 to less than 18 years of age. Use of dabigatran etexilate for this indication is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies in pediatric patients. These studies included an open-label, randomized, parallel-group study and an open-label, single-arm safety study [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) and Clinical Studies (14.4, 14.5)]. Other age-appropriate pediatric dosage forms of dabigatran etexilate are available for pediatric patients less than 8 years of age for these indications.

Safety and effectiveness of dabigatran etexilate capsules have not been established in pediatric patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation or those who have undergone hip replacement surgery.

Of the total number of patients in the RE-LY study, 82% were 65 and over, while 40% were 75 and over. The risk of stroke and bleeding increases with age, but the risk-benefit profile is favorable in all age groups [see Warnings and Precautions (5), Adverse Reactions (6.1), and Clinical Studies (14.1)].

Accidental overdose may lead to hemorrhagic complications. In the event of hemorrhagic complications, initiate appropriate clinical support, discontinue treatment with dabigatran etexilate capsules, and investigate the source of bleeding. A specific reversal agent (idarucizumab) is available for adult patients.

Dabigatran is primarily eliminated by the kidneys with a low plasma protein binding of approximately 35%. Hemodialysis can remove dabigatran; however, data supporting this approach are limited. Using a high-flux dialyzer, blood flow rate of 200 mL/min, and dialysate flow rate of 700 mL/min, approximately 49% of total dabigatran can be cleared from plasma over 4 hours. At the same dialysate flow rate, approximately 57% can be cleared using a dialyzer blood flow rate of 300 mL/min, with no appreciable increase in clearance observed at higher blood flow rates. Upon cessation of hemodialysis, a redistribution effect of approximately 7% to 15% is seen. The effect of dialysis on dabigatran’s plasma concentration would be expected to vary based on patient specific characteristics. Measurement of aPTT or ECT may help guide therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)].

The chemical name for dabigatran etexilate mesylate, a direct thrombin inhibitor, is Ethyl 3-{[(2-{[(4-{[(hexyloxy)carbonyl]carbamimidoyl}phenyl)amino]methyl}-1-methyl-1H-benzimidazol-5-yl)carbonyl](pyridin-2-yl)amino}propanoate, monomethanesulfonate. The molecular formula is C₃₄H₄₁N₇O₅•CH₄O₃S and the molecular weight is 723.86 (mesylate salt), 627.75 (free base). The structural formula is:

Dabigatran Etexilate Mesylate (Image 01)

Dabigatran etexilate mesylate is a white to yellow powder. A saturated solution in pure water has a solubility of 1.8 mg/mL. It is freely soluble in methanol, slightly soluble in ethanol, and sparingly soluble in isopropanol.

Dabigatran etexilate capsules are supplied in 75 mg and 150 mg strengths for oral administration. Each capsule contains dabigatran etexilate mesylate as the active ingredient: 150 mg dabigatran etexilate (equivalent to 172.95 mg dabigatran etexilate mesylate) or 75 mg dabigatran etexilate (equivalent to 86.48 mg dabigatran etexilate mesylate) along with the following inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, crospovidone, fumaric acid, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hypromellose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium lauryl sulfate and titanium dioxide. The 150 mg capsules also contain black iron oxide and red iron oxide.

In addition, the black imprinting ink contains black iron oxide, potassium hydroxide, propylene glycol, shellac and strong ammonia solution.

Dabigatran and its acyl glucuronides are competitive, direct thrombin inhibitors. Because thrombin (serine protease) enables the conversion of fibrinogen into fibrin during the coagulation cascade, its inhibition prevents the development of a thrombus. Both free and clot-bound thrombin, and thrombin-induced platelet aggregation are inhibited by the active moieties.

At recommended therapeutic doses, dabigatran etexilate prolongs the coagulation markers such as aPTT, ECT, TT, and dTT. INR is relatively insensitive to the exposure to dabigatran and cannot be interpreted the same way as used for warfarin monitoring.

The aPTT test provides an approximation of dabigatran etexilate capsule’s anticoagulant effect. The average time course for effects on aPTT, following approved dosing regimens in patients with various degrees of renal impairment is shown in Figure 2. The curves represent mean levels without confidence intervals; variations should be expected when measuring aPTT. While advice cannot be provided on the level of recovery of aPTT needed in any particular clinical setting, the curves can be used to estimate the time to get to a particular level of recovery, even when the time since the last dose of dabigatran etexilate capsules is not precisely known. In the RE-LY trial, the median (10^th to 90^th percentile) trough aPTT in patients receiving the 150 mg dose was 52 (40 to 76) seconds.

Figure 2. Average Time Course For Effects Of Dabigatran On Aptt, Following Approved Dabigatran Etexilate Capsules Dosing Regimens In Adult Patients With Various Degrees Of Renal Impairment (Image 05)

^* Simulations based on PK data from a study in subjects with renal impairment and PK/aPTT relationships derived from the RE-LY study; aPTT prolongation in RE-LY was measured centrally in citrate plasma using PTT Reagent Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Mannheim, Germany. There may be quantitative differences between various established methods for aPTT assessment.

The degree of anticoagulant activity can also be assessed by the ecarin clotting time (ECT). This test is a more specific measure of the effect of dabigatran than activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). In the RE-LY trial, the median (10^th to 90^th percentile) trough ECT in patients receiving the 150 mg dose was 63 (44 to 103) seconds.

In orthopedic hip surgery patients, maximum aPTT response (Emax) to dabigatran and baseline aPTT were higher shortly after surgery than at later time points (e.g., ≥ 3 days after surgery).

As in adults, there is a correlation between plasma dabigatran concentrations and the degree of its anticoagulant effect in pediatric patients with venous thromboembolism. The parameters dTT and ECT increased in direct linear proportion to the plasma concentration of dabigatran, whereas aPTT prolongation increases in a nonlinear fashion with dabigatran plasma concentrations.

Similar PK/PD relationships for aPTT, ECT, and dTT were observed across age groups of pediatric patients (ages 26 days to < 18 years) and between pediatric and adult patients with venous thromboembolism. This similarity in PK/PD relationship suggests that similar exposure response relationship is expected for dabigatran etexilate treatment across the pediatric age groups and adult patients.

No prolongation of the QTc interval was observed with dabigatran etexilate at doses up to 600 mg.

Dabigatran etexilate mesylate is absorbed as the dabigatran etexilate ester. The ester is then hydrolyzed, forming dabigatran, the active moiety. Dabigatran is metabolized to four different acyl glucuronides and both the glucuronides and dabigatran have similar pharmacological activity. Pharmacokinetics described here refer to the sum of dabigatran and its glucuronides. Dabigatran displays dose-proportional pharmacokinetics in healthy adult subjects and adult patients in the range of doses from 10 to 400 mg. Given twice daily, dabigatran’s accumulation factor in adults and pediatrics is approximately two.

The absolute bioavailability of dabigatran following oral administration of dabigatran etexilate is approximately 3% to 7%. Dabigatran etexilate is a substrate of the efflux transporter P-gp. After oral administration of dabigatran etexilate in healthy volunteers, C_max occurs at 1-hour post-administration in the fasted state. Coadministration of dabigatran etexilate capsules with a high-fat meal delays the time to C_max by approximately 2 hours but has no effect on the bioavailability of dabigatran; dabigatran etexilate capsules may be administered with or without food.

The oral bioavailability of dabigatran etexilate increases by 75% when the pellets are taken without the capsule shell compared to the intact capsule formulation based on a single-dose relative bioavailability study. Dabigatran etexilate capsules should therefore not be broken, chewed, or opened before administration.

Dabigatran etexilate is available in capsules and oral pellets. The approved indications and intended age groups are not the same. Oral absorption of dabigatran etexilate is formulation-dependent. At steady-state, dabigatran etexilate oral pellets show 37% higher relative bioavailability in healthy adults compared to dabigatran etexilate capsules based on a multiple-dose relative bioavailability study. In addition, the relative bioavailability between the two dosage forms is age-dependent. The relative bioavailability observed in adults cannot be translated to pediatrics.

Dabigatran is approximately 35% bound to human plasma proteins. The red blood cell to plasma partitioning of dabigatran measured as total radioactivity is less than 0.3. The volume of distribution of dabigatran is 50 to 70 L.

Dabigatran is eliminated primarily in the urine. Renal clearance of dabigatran is 80% of total clearance after intravenous administration. After oral administration of radiolabeled dabigatran, 7% of radioactivity is recovered in urine and 86% in feces. The half-life of dabigatran in healthy adult subjects is 12 to 17 hours. Population pharmacokinetic simulation shows that the elimination half-life in pediatric patients is 12 to 14 hours.

After oral administration, dabigatran etexilate is converted to dabigatran. The cleavage of the dabigatran etexilate by esterase-catalyzed hydrolysis to the active principal dabigatran is the predominant metabolic reaction. Dabigatran is not a substrate, inhibitor, or inducer of CYP450 enzymes. Dabigatran is subject to conjugation, forming pharmacologically active acyl glucuronides. Four positional isomers, 1-O, 2-O, 3-O, and 4-O-acylglucuronide exist, and each accounts for less than 10% of total dabigatran in plasma.

The pharmacokinetics of dabigatran was characterized in two clinical studies (DIVERSITY and Study 2) following multiple doses in pediatric patients from birth to less than 18 years old. In pediatric patients taking age- and weight-adjusted dosages of dabigatran etexilate capsules (aged 8-18 years), the observed geometric mean steady-state trough concentration was 97.9 ng/mL (63.7 to 151 ng/mL, 10th to 90th percentile) compared to the steady-state geometric mean trough concentration of 59.7 ng/mL (26.3 to 146 ng/mL, 10th to 90th percentile) observed in adult patients with DVT/PE.

An open, parallel-group, single-center study compared dabigatran pharmacokinetics in healthy adult subjects and adult patients with mild to moderate renal impairment receiving a single dose of dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg. Exposure to dabigatran increases with severity of renal function impairment (Table 10). Similar findings were observed in the RE-LY, RE-COVER and RE-NOVATE II trials.

Administration of dabigatran etexilate capsules in adult patients with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B) showed a large inter-subject variability, but no evidence of a consistent change in exposure or pharmacodynamics.

A summary of the effect of coadministered drugs on dabigatran exposure in healthy adult subjects is shown in Figures 3.1 and 3.2.

In the orthopedic hip surgery patients, limited clinical data with P-gp inhibitors is available.

Figure 3.1. Effect Of P-gp Inhibitor Or Inducer (rifampicin) Drugs On Peak And Total Exposure To Dabigatran (cmax And Auc). Shown Are The Geometric Mean Ratios (ratio) And 90% Confidence Interval (90% Ci). The Perpetrator And Dabigatran Etexilate Dose And Dosing Frequency Are Given As Well As The Time Of Perpetrator Dosing In Relation To Dabigatran Etexilate Dose (time Difference) (Image 03)

Figure 3.2: Effect Of Non-p-gp Inhibitor Or Inducer, Other Drugs, On Peak And Total Exposure To Dabigatran (cmax And Auc). Shown Are The Geometric Mean Ratios (ratio) And 90% Confidence Interval (90% Ci). The Perpetrator And Dabigatran Etexilate Dose And Dosing Frequency Are Given As Well As The Time Of Perpetrator Dosing In Relation To Dabigatran Etexilate Dose (time Difference) (Image 04)

In RE-LY, dabigatran plasma samples were also collected. The concomitant use of proton pump inhibitors, H2 antagonists, and digoxin did not appreciably change the trough concentration of dabigatran.

In clinical studies exploring CYP3A4, CYP2C9, P-gp and other pathways, dabigatran did not meaningfully alter the pharmacokinetics of amiodarone, atorvastatin, clarithromycin, diclofenac, clopidogrel, digoxin, pantoprazole, or ranitidine.

Dabigatran was not carcinogenic when administered by oral gavage to mice and rats for up to 2 years. The highest doses tested (200 mg/kg/day) in mice and rats were approximately 3.6 and 6 times, respectively, the human exposure at MRHD of 300 mg/day based on AUC comparisons.

Dabigatran was not mutagenic in in vitro tests, including bacterial reversion tests, mouse lymphoma assay and chromosomal aberration assay in human lymphocytes, and the in vivo micronucleus assay in rats.

In the rat fertility study with oral gavage doses of 15, 70, and 200 mg/kg, males were treated for 29 days prior to mating, during mating up to scheduled termination, and females were treated 15 days prior to mating through gestation Day 6. No adverse effects on male or female fertility were observed at 200 mg/kg or 9 to 12 times the human exposure at MRHD of 300 mg/day based on AUC comparisons. However, the number of implantations decreased in females receiving 70 mg/kg, or 3 times the human exposure at MRHD based on AUC comparisons.

The clinical evidence for the efficacy of dabigatran etexilate capsules was derived from RE-LY (Randomized Evaluation of Long-term Anticoagulant Therapy), a multi-center, multi-national, randomized, parallel group trial comparing two blinded dosages of dabigatran etexilate capsules (110 mg twice daily and 150 mg twice daily) with open-label warfarin (dosed to target INR of 2 to 3) in patients with non-valvular, persistent, paroxysmal, or permanent atrial fibrillation and one or more of the following additional risk factors:

• Previous stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), or systemic embolism
• Left ventricular ejection fraction < 40%
• Symptomatic heart failure, ≥ New York Heart Association Class 2
• Age ≥ 75 years
• Age ≥ 65 years and one of the following: diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease (CAD), or hypertension

The primary objective of this study was to determine if dabigatran etexilate capsules were non-inferior to warfarin in reducing the occurrence of the composite endpoint, stroke (ischemic and hemorrhagic) and systemic embolism. The study was designed to ensure that dabigatran etexilate capsules preserved more than 50% of warfarin’s effect as established by previous randomized, placebo-controlled trials of warfarin in atrial fibrillation. Statistical superiority was also analyzed.

A total of 18,113 patients were randomized and followed for a median of 2 years. The patients’ mean age was 71.5 years and the mean CHADS₂ score was 2.1. The patient population was 64% male, 70% Caucasian, 16% Asian, and 1% black. Twenty percent of patients had a history of a stroke or TIA and 50% were vitamin K antagonist (VKA) naive, defined as less than 2 months total lifetime exposure to a VKA. Thirty-two percent of the population had never been exposed to a VKA. Concomitant diseases of patients in this trial included hypertension 79%, diabetes 23%, and CAD 28%. At baseline, 40% of patients were on aspirin and 6% were on clopidogrel. For patients randomized to warfarin, the mean percentage of time in therapeutic range (INR 2 to 3) was 64%.

Relative to warfarin and to dabigatran etexilate capsules 110 mg twice daily, dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg twice daily significantly reduced the primary composite endpoint of stroke and systemic embolism (see Table 11 and Figure 4).

Table 11. First Occurrence of Stroke or Systemic Embolism in the RE-LY Study

Randomized ITT

	Dabigatran Etexilate Capsules 150 mg twice daily	Dabigatran Etexilate Capsules 110 mg twice daily	Warfarin
Patients randomized	6,076	6,015	6,022
Patients (% per yr) with events	135 (1.12%)	183 (1.54%)	203 (1.72%)
Hazard ratio vs warfarin (95% CI)	0.65 (0.52, 0.81)	0.89 (0.73, 1.09)
P-value for superiority	0.0001	0.27
Hazard ratio vs dabigatran etexilate capsules 110 mg (95% CI)	0.72 (0.58, 0.91)
P-value for superiority	0.005

 



Figure 2. Kaplan-meier Curve Estimate Of Time To First Stroke Or Systemic Embolism (Image 08)

Figure 4. Kaplan-Meier Curve Estimate of Time to First Stroke or Systemic Embolism

The contributions of the components of the composite endpoint, including stroke by subtype, are shown in Table 12. The treatment effect was primarily a reduction in stroke. Dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg twice daily was superior in reducing ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes relative to warfarin.

Table 12. Strokes and Systemic Embolism in the RE-LY Study

	Dabigatran Etexilate Capsules 150 mg twice daily	Warfarin	Hazard ratio vs warfarin (95% CI)
Patients randomized	6,076	6,022
Stroke	123	187	0.64 (0.51, 0.81)
Ischemic stroke	104	134	0.76 (0.59, 0.98)
Hemorrhagic stroke	12	45	0.26 (0.14, 0.49)
Systemic embolism	13	21	0.61 (0.30, 1.21)

In the RE-LY trial, the rate of all-cause mortality was lower on dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg than on warfarin (3.6% per year versus 4.1% per year). The rate of vascular death was lower on dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg compared to warfarin (2.3% per year versus 2.7% per year). Non-vascular death rates were similar in the treatment arms.

The efficacy of dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg twice daily was generally consistent across major subgroups (see Figure 5).

 



Figure 5. Stroke And Systemic Embolism Hazard Ratios By Baseline Characteristics (Image 06)

Figure 5. Stroke and Systemic Embolism Hazard Ratios by Baseline Characteristics*

* Randomized ITT

Note: The figure above presents effects in various subgroups all of which are baseline characteristics and all of which were pre-specified. The 95% confidence limits that are shown do not take into account how many comparisons were made, nor do they reflect the effect of a particular factor after adjustment for all other factors. Apparent homogeneity or heterogeneity among groups should not be over-interpreted.

In RE-LY, a higher rate of clinical myocardial infarction was reported in patients who received dabigatran etexilate capsules (0.7 per 100 patient-years for 150 mg dose) than in those who received warfarin (0.6).

In the randomized, parallel group, double-blind trials, RE-COVER and RE-COVER II, patients with deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism received dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg twice daily or warfarin (dosed to target INR of 2 to 3) following initial treatment with an approved parenteral anticoagulant for 5 to 10 days.

In RE-COVER, the median treatment duration during the oral only treatment period was 174 days. A total of 2,539 patients (30.9% patients with symptomatic PE with or without DVT and 68.9% with symptomatic DVT only) were treated with a mean age of 54.7 years. The patient population was 58.4% male, 94.8% white, 2.6% Asian, and 2.6% black. The concomitant diseases of patients in this trial included hypertension (35.9%), diabetes mellitus (8.3%), coronary artery disease (6.5%), active cancer (4.8%), and gastric or duodenal ulcer (4.4%). Concomitant medications included agents acting on renin-angiotensin system (25.2%), vasodilators (28.4%), serum lipid-reducing agents (18.2%), NSAIDs (21%), beta-blockers (14.8%), calcium channel blockers (8.5%), ASA (8.6%), and platelet inhibitors excluding ASA (0.6%). Patients randomized to warfarin had a mean percentage of time in the INR target range of 2.0 to 3.0 of 60% in RE-COVER study.

In RE-COVER II, the median treatment duration during the oral only treatment period was 174 days. A total of 2,568 patients (31.8% patients with symptomatic PE with or without DVT and 68.1% with symptomatic DVT only) were treated with a mean age of 54.9 years. The patient population was 60.6% male, 77.6% white, 20.9% Asian, and 1.5% black. The concomitant diseases of patients in this trial included hypertension (35.1%), diabetes mellitus (9.8%), coronary artery disease (7.1%), active cancer (3.9%), and gastric or duodenal ulcer (3.8%). Concomitant medications included agents acting on renin-angiotensin system (24.2%), vasodilators (28.6%), serum lipid-reducing agents (20.0%), NSAIDs (22.3%), beta-blockers (14.8%), calcium channel blockers (10.8%), ASA (9.8%), and platelet inhibitors excluding ASA (0.8%). Patients randomized to warfarin had a mean percentage of time in the INR target range of 2.0 to 3.0 of 57% in RE-COVER II study.

In studies RE-COVER and RE-COVER II, the protocol specified non-inferiority margin (2.75) for the hazard ratio was derived based on the upper limit of the 95% confidence interval of the historical warfarin effect. Dabigatran etexilate capsules were demonstrated to be non-inferior to warfarin (dosed to target INR of 2 to 3) (Table 13) based on the primary composite endpoint (fatal PE or symptomatic non-fatal PE and/or DVT) and retains at least 66.9% (RE-COVER) and 63.9% (RE-COVER II) of the historical warfarin effect, respectively.

In the randomized, parallel-group, double-blind, pivotal trial, RE-MEDY, patients received dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg twice daily or warfarin (dosed to target INR of 2 to 3) following 3 to 12 months of treatment with anticoagulation therapy for an acute VTE. The median treatment duration during the treatment period was 534 days. A total of 2,856 patients were treated with a mean age of 54.6 years. The patient population was 61% male, and 90.1% white, 7.9% Asian and 2.0% black. The concomitant diseases of patients in this trial included hypertension (38.6%), diabetes mellitus (9.0%), coronary artery disease (7.2%), active cancer (4.2%), and gastric or duodenal ulcer (3.8%). Concomitant medications included agents acting on renin-angiotensin system (27.9%), vasodilators (26.7%), serum lipid reducing agents (20.6%), NSAIDs (18.3%), beta-blockers (16.3%), calcium channel blockers (11.1%), aspirin (7.7%), and platelet inhibitors excluding ASA (0.9%). Patients randomized to warfarin had a mean percentage of time in the INR target range of 2.0 to 3.0 of 62% in the study.

In study RE-MEDY, the protocol specified non-inferiority margin (2.85) for the hazard ratio was derived based on the point estimate of the historical warfarin effect. Dabigatran etexilate capsules were demonstrated to be non-inferior to warfarin (dosed to target INR of 2 to 3) (Table 14) based on the primary composite endpoint (fatal PE or symptomatic non-fatal PE and/or DVT) and retains at least 63.0% of the historical warfarin effect. If the non-inferiority margin was derived based on the 50% retention of the upper limit of the 95% confidence interval, dabigatran etexilate capsules were demonstrated to retain at least 33.4% of the historical warfarin effect based on the composite primary endpoint.

In a randomized, parallel-group, double-blind, pivotal trial, RE-SONATE, patients received dabigatran etexilate capsules 150 mg twice daily or placebo following 6 to 18 months of treatment with anticoagulation therapy for an acute VTE. The median treatment duration was 182 days. A total of 1,343 patients were treated with a mean age of 55.8 years. The patient population was 55.5% male, 89.0% white, 9.3% Asian, and 1.7% black. The concomitant diseases of patients in this trial included hypertension (38.8%), diabetes mellitus (8.0%), coronary artery disease (6.0%), history of cancer (6.0%), gastric or duodenal ulcer (4.5%), and heart failure (4.6%). Concomitant medications included agents acting on renin-angiotensin system (28.7%), vasodilators (19.4%), beta-blockers (18.5%), serum lipid reducing agents (17.9%), NSAIDs (12.1%), calcium channel blockers (8.9%), aspirin (8.3%), and platelet inhibitors excluding ASA (0.7%). Based on the outcome of the primary composite endpoint (fatal PE, unexplained death, or symptomatic non-fatal PE and/or DVT), dabigatran etexilate capsules were superior to placebo (Table 15).

In the randomized, parallel-group, double-blind, non-inferiority trials, RE-NOVATE and RE-NOVATE II patients received dabigatran etexilate capsules 75 mg orally 1-4 hours after surgery followed by 150 mg daily (RE-NOVATE), dabigatran etexilate capsules 110 mg orally 1-4 hours after surgery followed by 220 mg daily (RE-NOVATE and RE-NOVATE II) or subcutaneous enoxaparin 40 mg once daily initiated the evening before surgery (RE-NOVATE and RE-NOVATE II) for the prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in patients who have undergone hip replacement surgery.

Overall, in RE-NOVATE and RE-NOVATE II, the median treatment duration was 33 days for dabigatran etexilate capsules and 33 days for enoxaparin. A total of 5,428 patients were treated with a mean age of 63.2 years. The patient population was 45.3% male, 96.1% white, 3.6% Asian, and 0.4% black. The concomitant diseases of patients in these trials included hypertension (46.1%), venous insufficiency (15.4%), coronary artery disease (8.2%), diabetes mellitus (7.9%), reduced renal function (5.3%), heart failure (3.4%), gastric or duodenal ulcer (3.0%), VTE (2.7%), and malignancy (0.1%). Concomitant medications included cardiac therapy (69.7%), NSAIDs (68%), vasoprotectives (29.7%), agents acting on renin-angiotensin system (29.1%), beta-blockers (21.5%), diuretics (20.8%), lipid modifying agents (18.2%), any antithrombin/anticoagulant (16.0%), calcium channel blockers (13.6%), low molecular weight heparin (7.8%), aspirin (7.0%), platelet inhibitors excluding ASA (6.9%), other antihypertensives (6.7%), and peripheral vasodilators (2.6%).

For efficacy evaluation all patients were to have bilateral venography of the lower extremities at 3 days after last dose of study drug unless an endpoint event had occurred earlier in the study. In the primary efficacy analysis, dabigatran etexilate capsules 110 mg orally 1-4 hours after surgery followed by 220 mg daily was non-inferior to enoxaparin 40 mg once daily in a composite endpoint of confirmed VTE (proximal or distal DVT on venogram, confirmed symptomatic DVT, or confirmed PE) and all cause death during the treatment period (Tables 16 and 17). In the studies 2628 (76.5%) patients in RE-NOVATE and 1572 (78.9%) patients in RE-NOVATE II had evaluable venograms at study completion.

The DIVERSITY study was conducted to demonstrate the efficacy and safety of dabigatran etexilate compared to standard of care (SOC) for the treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in pediatric patients from birth to less than 18 years of age. The study was designed as an open-label, randomized, parallel-group, noninferiority study. Patients enrolled were randomized according to a 2:1 scheme to either an age-appropriate formulation (capsules, oral pellets, or oral solution) of dabigatran etexilate (doses adjusted for age and weight) after at least 5 days and no longer than 21 days of treatment with a parenteral anticoagulant, or to SOC comprised of low molecular weight heparins (LMWH) or vitamin K antagonists (VKA) or fondaparinux. For patients on dabigatran etexilate, drug concentration was determined prior to the 7th dose and a single titration was permitted to achieve drug target levels of 50-250 ng/mL. Inability to achieve target, after one up-titration, resulted in premature termination of study drug in 12 patients (6.8%).

The median treatment duration during the treatment period was 85 days. In total, 267 patients entered the study (leading index VTE was 64% deep vein thrombosis, 10% cerebral venous thrombosis or sinus thrombosis, and 9.0% pulmonary embolism), with 18% of patients having a central line-associated thrombosis. The patient population was 49.8% male, 91.8% white, 4.9% Asian, and 1.5% black; 168 patients were 12 to < 18 years old, 64 patients 2 to < 12 years, and 35 patients were younger than 2 years. The concomitant VTE-related risk factors of patients in this trial among study arms were as follows: inherited thrombophilia disorder (dabigatran etexilate: 20%, SOC: 22%), congenital heart disease (dabigatran etexilate: 12%, SOC: 30%), heart failure (dabigatran etexilate: 3%, SOC: 18%), history of cancer (dabigatran etexilate: 10%, SOC: 1%), CVL insertion (dabigatran etexilate: 23%, SOC: 27%), immobility (dabigatran etexilate: 13%, SOC: 10%) and significant infection (dabigatran etexilate: 15%, SOC: 13%). The number of patients taking concomitant medications with hemostatic effects were similar in both treatment groups (dabigatran etexilate: 15%, SOC: 16%).

The efficacy of dabigatran etexilate was established based on a composite endpoint of patients with complete thrombus resolution, freedom from recurrent venous thromboembolic event, and freedom from mortality related to venous thromboembolic event (composite primary endpoint). Of the 267 randomized patients, 81 patients (45.8%) in the dabigatran etexilate group and 38 patients (42.2%) in the SOC group met the criteria for the composite primary endpoint. The corresponding rate difference and 95% CI was -0.038 (-0.161, 0.086) and thus demonstrated non-inferiority of dabigatran etexilate to SOC, since the upper bound of the 95% CI was lower than the predefined non-inferiority margin of 20% (see Table 18).

Subgroup analyses showed that there were no outliers in the treatment effect for the subgroups by age, sex, region, and presence of certain risk factors (central venous line, congenital heart disease, malignant disease). For the 3 different age strata, the proportions of patients that met the efficacy endpoint in the dabigatran etexilate and SOC groups, respectively, were 13/22 (59.1%) and 7/13 (53.8%) for patients from birth to < 2 years [Rate Difference -0.052; (95%CI: -0.393, 0.288)], 21/43 (48.8%) and 12/21 (57.1%) for patients aged 2 to < 12 years [Rate Difference 0.083; (95%CI: -0.176, 0.342)], and 47/112 (42.0%) and 19/56 (33.9%) for patients aged 12 to < 18 years [Rate Difference -0.080; (95%CI: -0.234, 0.074)].

Study 2 was an open-label, single-arm safety study to assess the safety of dabigatran etexilate for the prevention of recurrent VTE in pediatric patients from birth to < 18 years. Patients who required further anticoagulation due to the presence of a clinical risk factor after completing the initial treatment for confirmed VTE (for at least 3 months) or after completing the DIVERSITY study were included in the study. Eligible patients received age- and weight adjusted dosages of an age-appropriate formulation (capsules or oral pellets) of dabigatran etexilate until the clinical risk factor resolved, or up to a maximum of 12 months. The primary endpoints of the study included the recurrence of VTE, major and minor bleeding events, and mortality (overall and related to thrombotic or thromboembolic events) at 6 and 12 months.

Of the 214 patients in the study, 162 patients were 12 to < 18 years old, 43 patients were 2 to < 12 years old, and 9 patients were aged 6 months to < 2 years old.

The overall probability of being free from recurrence of VTE during the on-treatment period was 0.990 (95% CI: 0.960, 0.997) at 3 months, 0.984 (95% CI: 0.950, 0.995) at 6 months, and 0.984 (95% CI: 0.950, 0.995) at 12 months. The probability of being free from bleeding events during the on-treatment period was 0.849 (95% CI: 0.792, 0.891) at 3 months, 0.785 (95% CI: 0.718, 0.838) at 6 months, and 0.723 (95% CI: 0.645, 0.787) at 12 months. No on-treatment deaths occurred.

Dabigatran Etexilate Capsules are available containing 86.48 mg or 172.95 mg of dabigatran etexilate mesylate equivalent to 75 mg or 150 mg of dabigatran etexilate, respectively.

The 75 mg capsules are hard-shell hypromellose capsules with a white opaque cap and a white opaque body filled with white to off-white powder. The capsules are axially printed with MYLAN over DE 75 in black ink on both the cap and body. They are available as follows:

NDC 0378-0265-93
bottles of 30 capsules

NDC 0378-0265-91
bottles of 60 capsules

The 150 mg capsules are hard-shell hypromellose capsules with a light purple opaque cap and a white opaque body filled with white to off-white powder. The capsules are axially printed with MYLAN over DE 150 in black ink on both the cap and body. They are available as follows:

NDC 0378-0266-93
bottles of 30 capsules

NDC 0378-0266-91
bottles of 60 capsules

Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.] Once opened, the product must be used within 4 months. Keep the bottle tightly closed. Store in the original package to protect from moisture.

PHARMACIST: Dispense a Medication Guide with each prescription.

Advise the patient or caregiver to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).

Instructions for Patients

• Tell patients to take dabigatran etexilate capsules exactly as prescribed.
• Remind patients not to discontinue dabigatran etexilate capsules without talking to the healthcare provider who prescribed them.
• Keep dabigatran etexilate capsules in the original bottle to protect from moisture. Do not put dabigatran etexilate capsules in pill boxes or pill organizers.
• When more than one bottle is dispensed to the patient, instruct them to open only one bottle at a time.
• Instruct patient to remove only one capsule from the opened bottle at the time of use. The bottle should be immediately and tightly closed.
• Advise patients not to chew or break the capsules before swallowing them and not to open the capsules and take the powder alone.
• Advise patients that the capsule should be taken with a full glass of water.

[see Boxed Warning, Dosage and Administration (2.5)]

Bleeding

Inform patients that they may bleed more easily, may bleed longer, and should call their healthcare provider for any signs or symptoms of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

Instruct patients to seek emergency care right away if they have any of the following, which may be a sign or symptom of serious bleeding:

• Unusual bruising (bruises that appear without known cause or that get bigger)
• Pink or brown urine
• Red or black, tarry stools
• Coughing up blood
• Vomiting blood, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds

Instruct patients to call their healthcare provider or to get prompt medical attention if they experience any signs or symptoms of bleeding:

• Pain, swelling or discomfort in a joint
• Headaches, dizziness, or weakness
• Reoccurring nose bleeds
• Unusual bleeding from gums
• Bleeding from a cut that takes a long time to stop
• Menstrual bleeding or vaginal bleeding that is heavier than normal

If patients have had neuraxial anesthesia or spinal puncture, and particularly, if they are taking concomitant NSAIDs or platelet inhibitors, advise patients to watch for signs and symptoms of spinal or epidural hematoma, such as back pain, tingling, numbness (especially in the lower limbs), muscle weakness, and stool or urine incontinence. If any of these symptoms occur, advise the patient to contact his or her physician immediately [see Boxed Warning].

Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions

Instruct patients to call their healthcare provider if they experience any signs or symptoms of dyspepsia or gastritis:

• Dyspepsia (upset stomach), burning, or nausea
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Epigastric discomfort, GERD (gastric indigestion)

[see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]

Invasive or Surgical Procedures

Instruct patients to inform their healthcare provider that they are taking dabigatran etexilate capsules before any invasive procedure (including dental procedures) is scheduled [see Dosage and Administration (2.8)].

Concomitant Medications

Ask patients to list all prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, or dietary supplements they are taking or plan to take so their healthcare provider knows about other treatments that may affect bleeding risk (e.g., aspirin or NSAIDs) or dabigatran exposure (e.g., dronedarone or systemic ketoconazole) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.5)].

Prosthetic Heart Valves

Instruct patients to inform their healthcare provider if they will have or have had surgery to place a prosthetic heart valve [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

Allergic Reactions

Advise adult patients and caregivers that some adults taking dabigatran etexilate capsules have developed symptoms of an allergic reaction. Advise adult patients or caregivers to inform their healthcare provider if they or their child develop symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, rash, or itching. Advise adult patients or caregivers to seek emergency medical attention if they or their child develop chest pain or tightness, swelling of the face or tongue, trouble breathing or wheezing, or feeling dizzy or faint.

Pregnancy

Advise patients to inform their healthcare provider immediately if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during treatment with dabigatran etexilate capsules [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

Lactation

Advise patients not to breastfeed if they are taking dabigatran etexilate capsules [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)].

• Spinal or epidural blood clots (hematoma). People who take a blood thinner medicine (anticoagulant) like dabigatran etexilate capsules, and have medicine injected into their spinal and epidural area, or have a spinal puncture have a risk of forming a blood clot that can cause long-term or permanent loss of the ability to move (paralysis). Your risk of developing a spinal or epidural blood clot is higher if:

See “What are the possible side effects of dabigatran etexilate capsules?” for more information about side effects.

It is not known if dabigatran etexilate capsules are safe and effective in children with atrial fibrillation not caused by a heart valve problem, or in children who have undergone hip replacement surgery.

This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Manufactured for:
Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Morgantown, WV 26505 U.S.A.

Manufactured by:
Mylan Laboratories Limited
Hyderabad — 500 096, India

Revised: 10/2024

75106718

MXA:DABIC:R5m/MXA:MG:DABIC:R3m

NDC 0378-0265-93

Dabigatran Etexilate
Capsules
75 mg

PHARMACIST: Dispense in this unit-of-use
container with the accompanying Medication
Guide to each patient.

Swallow capsule whole. Once opened, the product
must be used within 4 months.

Dabigatran etexilate capsules are NOT substitutable
on a mg-to-mg basis with other dabigatran etexilate
dosage forms.

Rx only   30 Capsules

Each capsule contains 86.48 mg of
dabigatran etexilate mesylate equivalent
to 75 mg of dabigatran etexilate.

Usual Dosage: See accompanying
prescribing information.

Keep this and all medication out of
the reach of children.

Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). [See
USP Controlled Room Temperature.]

Manufactured for:
Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Morgantown, WV 26505 U.S.A.

Made in India

Mylan.com

RMXA0265H

Store in the original package in
order to protect from moisture.

Keep container tightly closed.

Code No.: MH/DRUGS/AD/089

Dabigatran Etexilate Capsules 75 mg Bottle Label (Image 07)

NDC 0378-0266-93

Dabigatran Etexilate
Capsules
150 mg

PHARMACIST: Dispense in this unit-of-use
container with the accompanying Medication
Guide to each patient.

Swallow capsule whole. Once opened, the product
must be used within 4 months.

Dabigatran etexilate capsules are NOT substitutable
on a mg-to-mg basis with other dabigatran etexilate
dosage forms.

Rx only   30 Capsules

Each capsule contains 172.95 mg of
dabigatran etexilate mesylate equivalent
to 150 mg of dabigatran etexilate.

Usual Dosage: See accompanying
prescribing information.

Keep this and all medication out of
the reach of children.

Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). [See
USP Controlled Room Temperature.]

Manufactured for:
Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Morgantown, WV 26505 U.S.A.

Made in India

Mylan.com

RMXA0266H

Store in the original package in
order to protect from moisture.

Keep container tightly closed.

Code No.: MH/DRUGS/AD/089

Dabigatran Etexilate Capsules 150 mg Bottle Label (Image 09)