About Pradaxa

The information below should not be taken as a substitute for qualified medical advice. Consult your health care provider before taking Pradaxa.

Pradaxa is an anticoagulant drug that is used to prevent blood clots in patients with atrial fibrillation. Blood clots can form more easily in these patients and lead to strokes and heart attacks. Pradaxa works by inhibiting an enzyme called thrombin that is involved in the pathway to form blood clots. Pradaxa is safer than warfarin, another anticoagulant drug, in patients with atrial fibrillation.

Pradaxa is taken as directed by your doctor, with or without a meal. Always have a supply of Pradaxa on hand; do not allow yourself to run out of the medication. If you have to have any surgical procedures, including dental work, discuss this with your doctor; you may have to stop taking Pradaxa before the procedure to prevent excess bleeding.

Side effects of Pradaxa include bruising and bleeding that takes longer to stop and upset stomach. Seek medical attention if you have severe bleeding, severe bruising, bleeding that doesn't stop, blood in the urine, blood in the stool, bloody vomit, or if you cough up blood.

Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking, especially if you are taking rifampin or other blood-thinning medications like aspirin, NSAIDs, clopidogrel, warfarin, heparin, or prasugrel. Your risk of bleeding is increased if you have kidney problems, ulcers, bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, or if you are over age 75.