Anticoagulant (Blood Thinner)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Dabigatran etexilate is a blood thinner (anticoagulant) that works by blocking a substance called thrombin in your blood, which helps prevent blood clots from forming. It is sold in Nigeria under the brand name Hetsolid.
Inhibits thrombin (Factor IIa) directly, preventing the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin and blocking the final common pathway of the coagulation cascade.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
For most adults, the usual dose is one 150 mg capsule taken twice daily (morning and evening). Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water — do not open, crush, or chew it. You can take it with or without food. Your doctor will decide the right dose based on your age, kidney function, and what you are being treated for.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — but only if there are still at least 6 hours before your next dose. If your next dose is less than 6 hours away, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for the one you missed.
Always buy Hetsolid from a licensed pharmacy — do not purchase from roadside vendors or unverified sellers, as fake blood thinners can be life-threatening. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without your doctor's approval, as this can increase your risk of stroke or blood clots. Tell any doctor or dentist that you are taking a blood thinner before any surgery or procedure, even tooth extraction.
Avoid taking with other blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin unless your doctor tells you to, as this greatly increases your risk of dangerous bleeding. Be careful with ketoconazole (a common antifungal in Nigeria) as it can increase dabigatran levels in your body. Alcohol should be limited because it can increase your risk of stomach bleeding.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Dabigatran with your other drugs?
Dabigatran is not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — it may cause serious harm to the baby, so consult your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near windows. Keep the capsules in their original container and close the lid tightly to protect from moisture. Always keep out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Dabigatran Etexilate?
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