Pradaxa (Dabigatran Etexilate) from Maple Leaf Medications.

Pradaxa (dabigatran etexilate mesylate) Indications

Pradaxa, generic name dabigatran etexilate mesylate, is an oral medication used to reduce the risk of stroke and blood clots in patients with atrial fibrillation that is not linked to a heart valve.

This drug is also used to treat pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis and reduces the risk of these blood clots from occurring again after receiving treatment.

Pradaxa is classified as a direct thrombin inhibitor. It prevents the formation of a thrombus (clot) by blocking the clotting protein thrombin.

Pradaxa (dabigatran etexilate mesylate) Uses and Dosage

Read the prescription information guide before administering Pradaxa.

Use this medication exactly as directed. Pradaxa is typically taken twice daily and, preferably, at equal intervals. When used to prevent blood clots following a knee or hip replacement surgery, Pradaxa is typically taken once daily.

This medication only comes in an oral formulation. You may take Pradaxa on an empty stomach or with a meal. Swallow the whole capsule with a glass of water and avoid chewing, cutting, or crushing it. Doing this can release the contents of the medication at once and may increase the side effects.

Pradaxa (dabigatran etexilate mesylate) Side Effects

The adverse effects caused by Pradaxa prescription are mostly mild. Here are the common side effects of taking Pradaxa:

• Minor bleeding
• Easy bruising
• Stomach upset
• Heartburn
• Nausea
• Indigestion
• Diarrhea

If any of the side effects above become worse, you should seek advice from your healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects

Pradaxa oral medication may also cause certain adverse reactions that are severe. These are as follows:

• Unusual pain or discomfort
• Unusual or prolonged bleeding
• Dark or pinkish urine
• Vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• Coughing up blood
• Black, tarry stool
• Severe headache
• Fainting
• Unusual weakness or fatigue
• Severe heartburn
• Severe abdominal pain

Contact you doctor immediately if you experience any of these effects.

Allergic Reactions

You must avoid Pradaxa if you have an allergy to dabigatran etexilate mesylate or any of the contents of this product. Seek emergency medical help once the following signs of an allergy develop:

• Rashes
• Itching
• Hives
• Swelling of the face and mouth
• Swelling of the neck area
• Trouble breathing
• Wheezing
• Severe dizziness

Pradaxa (dabigatran etexilate) Cautions

Using Pradaxa anticoagulant may be contraindicated for those patients with or who have a history of:

• Bleeding problems
• Mechanical heart valve
• Blood disorders
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Stroke
• Antiphospholipid syndrome
• Frequent injuries or falls
• Recent major surgery or injury

Avoid receiving intramuscular injections while on Pradaxa. This route of medication administration can cause bleeding.

Modify your consumption of alcoholic beverages. If possible, you must avoid alcohol, as this can cause stomach bleeding.

Pradaxa can increase the risk of bleeding during pregnancy. Thus, pregnant women must avoid it.

Talk to your physician regarding the possible effects of this medication during breastfeeding. It is not fully known if Pradaxa can pass through breast milk.

Pradaxa (dabigatran etexilate) Form and Strength

Although 110mg is not yet available in the United States, it is available in other countries. This prescription anticoagulant is available in:

• Pradaxa, capsules
  • 75 mg
  • 110 mg
  • 150 mg
• Dabigatran etexilate mesylate, capsules
  • 110 mg
  • 150 mg

FAQ

What foods should you avoid while taking Pradaxa?

While taking Pradaxa, avoid medications that are high in vitamin K. This includes fermented soy products, cabbage broccoli, spring opinions, and other leafy greens.

How long can you stay on Pradaxa?

Depending on the situation and patient, the prescription may be for a duration of 10 to 35 days.

Does Pradaxa have to be taken exactly 12 hours apart?

It’s recommended for Pradaxa to be administered at equal intervals. Once you miss your dose on schedule, take it as soon as you remember. However, you should disregard the dose if your next scheduled dose is close. Taking two doses with short intervals can increase the risk of bleeding.

Resources

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/022512s007lbl.pdf

https://patient.boehringer-ingelheim.com/us/pradaxa/

https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-154839/pradaxa-oral/details

https://www.rxlist.com/pradaxa-side-effects-drug-center.htm

https://www.drugs.com/pradaxa.html