Dabigatran and INR test.

[Earledavis]

I have been taken Dabigatran for around two years. I have never been offered a INR or any other type of test. It this normal with the newer anti-coagulant drugs?

[jennydog]

My understanding is that you have a test for kidney function before starting dabigatran and then have an annual check. No other testing has been mentioned to me and INR doesn't apply.

[Earledavis in reply to jennydog]

Thanks very much Jenny - I will ask my EP about a test at my next appointment.

[Bryonny]

Rivaroxaban Blocks factor Xa, and this prevents the blood from clotting. Rivaroxaban works differently to Warfarin and an INR is not an apprpriate test with Rivaroxaban.

[rosyG]

I have had tests (on Apixaban) organised by my GP- think you could ask at your surgery

[AnticoagulateNow]

For all the NOACs, a liver and kidney function test 3 months after starting, then annually. That's the standard.

[Marion62 in reply to AnticoagulateNow]

Just wondered if warfarin users should also have annual liver and kidney function blood tests annually?

Thanks

[AnticoagulateNow]

It does no harm for all of us to have those annually. I can't imagine your GP would say no.