A review on increasing risk for gastrointestinal bleeding associated with dabigatran

Dabigatran, a reversible direct thrombin inhibitor, is widely used in clinical practice as a therapeutic option due to its unique mechanism of action in comparison to other anticoagulants. Although patients taking dabigatran experience a reduced risk of fatal bleeding, a higher risk of gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is associated with dabigatran, and its rational use between anticoagulation and bleeding is challenging for clinicians. To prevent GIB, it is imperative for clinicians to understand the pharmacological characteristics of dabigatran to ensure that its prescription should be avoided in patients with bleeding. In this review, we summarize the mechanism of action and pharmacokinetics of dabigatran and bleeding sites in the gastrointestinal tract in patients treated with dabigatran, as well as discuss the factors that increase the risk of dabigatran-induced GIB, including dose, age, drug interactions, race, genetics and past medical history. Finally, the treatment and prevention of GIB with dabigatran is also discussed. This review will help clinicians choose their drugs and doses more carefully for treating GIB.