Dabigatran etexilate (as mesilate) is an oral antithrombotic agent.

Dabigatran etexilate 110 mg and 150 mg capsules were approved for the prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in adult patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF) with one or more risk factors in August 2011.

A NICE single technology appraisal for dabigatran etexilate (‘dabigatran’) is expected in December 2011.

This review evaluates the evidence to support the use of dabigatran for this indication, and summarises issues associated with introduction of the drug prior to NICE consideration.