Argatroban blocks the activity of certain clotting substances in the blood.

Argatroban is used to treat or prevent blood clots in adults who have thrombocytopenia (low levels of platelets in the blood) caused by using heparin. Argatroban is sometimes used in people who are undergoing a procedure called angioplasty (to open blocked arteries).

Argatroban may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

You should not use argatroban if you have any major bleeding from a surgery, injury, or other cause.

Argatroban can make it easier for you to bleed, even from a minor injury. Seek medical attention if you have unusual bruising, or bleeding that will not stop.

Argatroban is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Argatroban is given until your blood coagulates properly. Your doctor will test your blood often to determine how long to treat you with argatroban.

Argatroban can make it easier for you to bleed, even from a minor injury. Seek medical attention if you have unusual bruising, or bleeding that will not stop.

You should not use argatroban if you are allergic to it, or if you have any major bleeding from a surgery, injury, or other cause.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• a stomach ulcer or bleeding;

• liver disease;

• a bleeding or blood clotting disorder (such as hemophilia);

• severe or uncontrolled high blood pressure;

• a spinal tap or epidural anesthesia; or

• major surgery (especially eye surgery, brain surgery, or spinal cord surgery).

Taking argatroban during late pregnancy may cause bleeding in the mother or the baby during delivery. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant while taking argatroban.

It may not be safe to breastfeed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk.

Argatroban is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

Since argatroban is given by a healthcare professional, you are not likely to miss a dose.

Since argatroban is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

Avoid activities that may increase your risk of bleeding or injury. Use extra care to prevent bleeding while shaving or brushing your teeth.

Avoid alcohol. It may increase your risk of bleeding in your stomach or intestines.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Argatroban may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• easy bruising or bleeding (nosebleeds, bleeding gums, heavy menstrual bleeding);

• unexpected pain or swelling;

• any bleeding that will not stop;

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;

• bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;

• urine that looks red, pink, or brown;

• slow heart rate, weak pulse, fainting, slow breathing (breathing may stop); or

• signs of infection--fever, flu symptoms, mouth and throat ulcers, rapid heart rate, shallow breathing.

Common side effects of argatroban may include:

• infection;

• problems with heart function;

• fever;

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;

• low blood pressure;

• shortness of breath;

• headache, back pain; or

• chest pain.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially other medicines to treat or prevent blood clots.

Other drugs may affect argatroban, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.