Description:
Pradaxa is a blood thinner. It is also known as an anticoagulant. Pradaxa is used to prevent strokes and blood clots in people with atrial fibrillation (a heart rhythm disorder). Pradaxa is also used to treat or prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Side Effects:
The most common side effects of Pradaxa are bleeding and bruising. Other side effects include:
– gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding
– heartburn
– indigestion
– diarrhea
Less common side effects include:
– brain hemorrhage
– kidney failure
– liver failure
– low blood platelet counts
If you experience any of these side effects, call your doctor immediately.
Pradaxa can cause serious bleeding that can lead to death. This is more likely to occur in people with certain medical conditions, such as:
– a history of stroke or blood clot
– heart disease
– kidney disease
– liver disease
– a bleeding disorder
Pradaxa can also cause serious bleeding in the stomach or intestines. This may lead to black stools, bloody vomit, or vomiting blood. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately.
Dosages:
The usual dose of Pradaxa is 150 mg, taken twice daily with food.
If you have kidney problems, your doctor may prescribe a lower dose of Pradaxa.
Pradaxa comes in capsules that should be swallowed whole. Pradaxa should not be crushed or chewed.
Precautions:
Before taking Pradaxa, tell your doctor if you have ever had:
– a bleeding disorder
– kidney disease
– liver disease
– stomach ulcers
– a recent surgery
Pradaxa may increase your risk of bleeding. Your doctor will probably tell you to take Pradaxa for only a short time.
Pradaxa can cause low blood platelet counts. This can lead to serious bleeding. Your doctor will do blood tests to check your platelet levels before and during your treatment with Pradaxa.
Interactions:
Pradaxa may interact with other drugs, including:
– aspirin or other NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
– blood thinners
– heparin
– warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven)
This is not a complete list of Pradaxa drug interactions. Ask your doctor about all the drugs you take, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Pregnancy and Pradaxa:
Pradaxa is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during your treatment with Pradaxa.
Pradaxa and Breastfeeding:
It is not known if Pradaxa passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor before breastfeeding while taking Pradaxa.
