Dabigatran works by binding to thrombin in the clotting process described above and blocking its action. This stops the formation of fibrin, the essential component of blood clots. Dabigatran can therefore prevent blood clots from developing.
Side effects:
Pradaxa is used to stop blood clotting, so most side effects are commonly associated with signs of bruising or bleeding. In some cases, significant bleeding events may occur regardless of the bleeding site. Therefore, contact a doctor or healthcare provider immediately if you experience bleeding that doesn’t resolve spontaneously or signs of massive bleeding that include unusual weakness, tiredness, dizziness, unexpected swelling, headaches, and pallor. Â
In addition, contact a doctor or healthcare provider if you experience a severe allergic reaction to the medication. Signs may be difficulty breathing or dizziness.
Side effects vary according to the reason for treatment with Pradaxa.
Prevention of blood clotting after knee or hip replacement surgery
Most common side effects:
- Lower hemoglobin levels in the blood
- Unusual liver function in laboratory tests
Prevention of brain blood vessel obstruction or body blood vessel obstruction in patients with irregular heartbeat non-related to a heart valve disease
Most common side effects:
- Bleeding from the nose, bleeding in urinary tract, stomach or bowels, vaginal/penile
- Pain in the abdomen or stomach
- Decrease in amount of red blood cells
- Indigestion
- Nausea
- Liquid stools or frequent stools
Treatment and prevention of blood clots in leg veins and pulmonary blood vesselsÂ
Most common side effects:
- Bleeding from the nose, bleeding in urinary tract, stomach or bowels, vaginal/penile
- Indigestion
Some less common side effects are not listed here. Read the manufacturer’s product insert that comes with the medication before use.
If you experience these or other unexpected side effects, consult a doctor or healthcare provider.
Pradaxa may be prescribed for the following reasons:
- Prevention of thrombosis in blood vessels after knee or hip replacement surgery
- Prevention of stroke or systemic embolism in patients with irregular heartbeats
- Treatment of blood clotting and recurring thrombosis prevention in leg veins and pulmonary blood vessels
The dose and amount of time that Pradaxa should be taken varies depending on the reason for treatment, age, other medications being taken, and other factors that should be discussed with the prescribing doctor.
Pradaxa can be taken regardless of meal time. It should be taken whole with a glass of water to ensure it reaches the stomach.
