Pradaxa (Dabigatran Etexilate)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Pradaxa Used For?
Pradaxa is a medication that helps prevent blood clots and is used for various medical conditions.
Primary Uses
Pradaxa is used to prevent blood clots after knee or hip replacement surgery, reduce the risk of stroke in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, and treat blood clots in the veins of the legs and lungs.
How It Works
Dabigatran etexilate is converted to its active form, dabigatran, which inhibits thrombin, a protein involved in blood clot formation.
Good to know: Pradaxa is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Pradaxa
Follow your doctor's instructions on how to take Pradaxa for optimal results.
Dosage Instructions
The typical dosage after knee replacement surgery is 220 mg (2 capsules of 110 mg) once daily. For stroke prevention, the recommended dose is 300 mg (1 capsule of 150 mg twice daily). Adjustments may be made for patients over 75 years or those with increased bleeding risk.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's close to your next scheduled dose. Do not double up on doses.
Important: Never take a double dose of Pradaxa to make up for a missed dose.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- bruising
- nose bleeds
- stomach ache
- itchy skin or rash
- diarrhoea
- indigestion
- feeling sick
- cough
- painful or swollen joints
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- long or excessive bleeding
- red or dark brown urine
- red or black bowel motions
- exceptional weakness
- chest pain or shortness of breath
- swelling of hands, ankles, or feet
- blood in urine
- increased time for blood to clot
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations before using Pradaxa.
Who Should Not Take Pradaxa
Do not use Pradaxa if you are allergic to its ingredients, currently bleeding, have severe kidney issues, or have a history of serious bleeding complications.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have liver problems, a history of bleeding disorders, or if you are older than 75 years.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pradaxa should not be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as it can affect the baby.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients, especially those with dementia, may require special consideration when using Pradaxa.
Drug Interactions
Some medications can interact with Pradaxa and affect its effectiveness.
- oral ketoconazole or itraconazole
- dronedarone
- ciclosporin or tacrolimus
- glecaprevir/pibrentasvir
- warfarin, rivaroxaban, apixaban, heparin
- verapamil
- aspirin and other NSAIDs
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating machinery while on Pradaxa.
Alcohol
Avoid excessive alcohol intake as it may increase the risk of bleeding.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how Pradaxa affects you.
Storage
Store Pradaxa in its blister pack in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from moisture and sunlight.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Pradaxa, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include unusual bleeding or bruising.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pradaxa starts to work shortly after taking it, but the exact time can vary based on individual factors.
You can take Pradaxa with or without food.
No, Pradaxa is not considered addictive.
Stopping Pradaxa suddenly can increase the risk of developing blood clots.
It's advisable to limit alcohol consumption while taking Pradaxa due to the increased risk of bleeding.
Weight gain is not listed as a common side effect of Pradaxa.
Elderly patients should be monitored closely, especially those over 75 years, as they may require adjusted dosages.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's close to your next dose. Do not double up.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.