Bivalirudin

Bivalirudin is a synthetic, specific, and reversible direct thrombin inhibitor (DTI). It works by directly binding to and inhibiting both circulating and clot-bound thrombin, thereby preventing thrombin-induced platelet aggregation and coagulation.

Dosage by Body Weight

Administered exclusively via intravenous bolus followed by a continuous intravenous infusion. Pediatric dosing is off-label, highly specialized, and must be closely monitored using Activated Clotting Time (ACT) or activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT). Dose adjustments are necessary for renal impairment.

  1. Body Weight
    Below 5 kg
    Dose
    Not routine
    Frequency
    Continuous IV infusion (if prescribed)
    Tracking Notes
    Off-label use. Requires highly specialized pediatric cardiology or intensive care monitoring. Standard pediatric bolus is 0.5 to 0.75 mg/kg, followed by 1.0 to 1.75 mg/kg/hour infusion, titrated to clinical target coagulation levels.
  2. Body Weight
    5-7 kg
    Dose
    0.5 to 0.75 mg/kg bolus, followed by 1.0 to 1.75 mg/kg/hour infusion
    Frequency
    Continuous IV infusion
    Tracking Notes
    Off-label use. Titrate infusion rate carefully based on ACT or aPTT monitoring. Monitor renal function closely.
  3. Body Weight
    8-10 kg
    Dose
    0.5 to 0.75 mg/kg bolus, followed by 1.0 to 1.75 mg/kg/hour infusion
    Frequency
    Continuous IV infusion
    Tracking Notes
    Off-label use. Requires inpatient monitoring. Discontinue infusion immediately if severe, unexpected bleeding occurs.
  4. Body Weight
    11-15 kg
    Dose
    0.5 to 0.75 mg/kg bolus, followed by 1.0 to 1.75 mg/kg/hour infusion
    Frequency
    Continuous IV infusion
    Tracking Notes
    Off-label use. Infusion rate should be reduced in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment.
  5. Body Weight
    16-20 kg
    Dose
    0.5 to 0.75 mg/kg bolus, followed by 1.0 to 1.75 mg/kg/hour infusion
    Frequency
    Continuous IV infusion
    Tracking Notes
    Off-label use. Ensure close monitoring of coagulation profile and vascular access sites for signs of bleeding.

Formulation

InjectionPowder for Reconstitution

Purpose

Anticoagulant used to prevent blood clots during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), especially in patients with or at risk of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT).

Generic Name

Bivalirudin

Branded Drug Names

Bivalirudin is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:

Scheduled Drug

No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.

Alternatives

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. WHO references and weight bands are simplified for tracking and must not replace medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting or changing any medication.