2.1
Dabigatran etexilate (Pradaxa, Boehringer Ingelheim) is a direct inhibitor of the enzyme thrombin. Thrombin is a key enzyme in blood clot (thrombus) formation because it enables the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin during the coagulation cascade. Inhibition of thrombin prevents further development of clot formation. Clot formation may be associated with inactivity and some surgical procedures. Dabigatran etexilate holds a marketing authorisation for the primary prevention of venous thromboembolic events in adult patients who have undergone elective total hip replacement surgery or elective total knee replacement surgery. Dabigatran is taken orally.