Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Dabigatran is a medication belonging to the class of direct thrombin inhibitors, which is used to prevent and treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) in adults and children aged three months or older who have received an injectable anticoagulant. In adults who have undergone hip replacement surgery, dabigatran is administered to prevent DVT and PE.
Dabigatran is also used to prevent strokes or severe blood clots in adults with atrial fibrillation, a condition characterized by an irregular heartbeat that increases the likelihood of blood clots forming in the body, potentially leading to stroke. This medication acts by blocking the formation of blood clots in the body.
Uses and Dosage
Follow your doctor’s instructions when taking this medication by mouth, with or without food, typically twice daily. For children, the first dose should be in the morning and the second in the evening, around 12 hours apart. To prevent blood clots after hip or knee replacement surgery, take it once a day, as prescribed by your doctor. Within 24 hours of surgery, avoid antacids, as they may reduce the effectiveness of dabigatran.
Swallow the capsules whole with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters). Do not crush, chew, or open the capsules, as doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.
Keep the medication in the original bottle (or blister package) to protect it from moisture, and do not put it in a pill box or medication reminder box.
The dosage depends on your medical condition, kidney function, response to treatment, and other medications you are taking. Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products. For children, the dosage also considers age and weight.
Take this medication regularly to derive the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) every day.
It is vital to take dabigatran precisely as directed. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than prescribed.
Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- stomach pain
- upset stomach
- heartburn
- nausea
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- unusual bruising or bleeding
- pink or brown urine
- red or black, tarry stools
- coughing up blood
- vomiting material that is bloody or looks like coffee grounds
- bleeding from the gums
- frequent nosebleeds
- heavy menstrual bleeding
- bleeding from a cut that lasts longer than normal
- joint pain or swelling
- headache
- dizziness or feeling faint
- weakness
- hives
- rash
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- chest pain or tightness
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, arms, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
Caution
Prior to taking dabigatran, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies or are allergic to it. This product may contain inactive elements that can trigger allergic reactions or other issues.
Prior to using this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, particularly if you have mechanical heart valves, kidney disease, bleeding disorders, blood disorders, liver disease, recent major injury/surgery, stroke, a certain clotting disorder (antiphospholipid syndrome), and frequent falls.
Before undergoing any surgery or medical/dental procedures (particularly spinal puncture or spinal/epidural anesthesia), inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medication, and disclose all the products you are using. Your doctor or dentist may instruct you to stop taking dabigatran before surgery. Request specific instructions about stopping or starting this medication.
This medication may cause stomach bleeding. Consuming alcohol regularly while using this drug may increase your risk of stomach bleeding. Limit your alcohol intake. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the amount of alcohol that you can safely consume.
This medication can cause heavy bleeding. To minimize the possibility of getting cut, bruised, or injured, be cautious while using sharp objects such as razors and nail cutters, and avoid contact sports. Use an electric razor while shaving and a soft toothbrush while brushing your teeth. If you fall or injure yourself, particularly if you hit your head, contact your doctor right away. Your doctor may need to examine you.
Older adults may be more susceptible to bleeding while taking this medication.
During pregnancy, use this medication only if it is absolutely necessary. Dabigatran may increase the risk of bleeding in the pregnant woman, unborn baby, and newborn baby. Discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor. Your doctor may switch you to a different type of medication during pregnancy.
This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Pradaxa is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Pradaxa capsule:
- 75mg
- 110mg
- 150mg
-
dabigatran etexilate capsule:
- 110mg
- 150mg
FAQ
How long can you stay on Pradaxa?
Pradaxa will continue to be prescribed while there is a risk of excessive clotting. This will usually be for a period of 10 – 35 days depending on the condition being treated.
Can Pradaxa cause weight gain?
Weight gain wasn’t a side effect reported among people taking Pradaxa in studies.
Resources
- https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/consumers/cmi/p/pradaxa.pdf
- https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/pradaxa-side-effects#:~:text=Does%20Pradaxa%20cause%20weight%20gain,or%20prevent%20certain%20blood%20clots
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/pradaxa#adverseeffects
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-154839-1122/pradaxa-oral/dabigatran-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a610024.html
- https://www.drugs.com/pradaxa.html
