Designed to prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of stroke, Pradaxa is an anticoagulant typically prescribed to individuals with atrial fibrillation—who do not have heart disease—but who may be at risk for stroke or blood clots. The drug was created to replace the more commonly used warfarin; however, Pradaxa has side effects that could cause other health problems or even lead to death.
What are the side effects of Pradaxa?
Pradaxa side effects include incidents of uncontrolled bleeding, and like other anticoagulants such as Xarelto, also features some of the same hazards of use:
- Severe or uncontrollable bleeding, including from the gums, nosebleeds, and heavier than normal menstrual or vaginal bleeding
- Coughing up blood or blood clots
- Vomiting blood
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Adrenal bleeding
- Hemorrhage, including pulmonary or cerebral
- Spinal or epidural hematoma
- Hemoglobin decrease
- Bruising
- Nausea
- Abdominal or stomach pain
- Indigestion
- Heartburn
- Upset stomach
- Diarrhea
- Skin rash
- Itching
- Pink or brown urine
- Transfusion
- Death
Although the medication was approved by the FDA, they warn patients taking Pradaxa that they should not stop taking the drug if they experience any adverse reactions, but should consult their primary healthcare physician right away.
At-risk conditions for side effects of Pradaxa
While all patients react differently to medications, certain individuals may be at higher risk of experiencing negative side effects of Pradaxa use, including:
- Patients 75 years or older
- Patients with kidney problems
- Patients with recent or recurring stomach or intestinal bleeding, due to stomach ulcers
- Patients with prosthetic heart valves
Further warnings regarding the use of Pradaxa warn that there is no medication or specific agent that is capable of reversing any bleeding caused by the use of the drug and that the only way for the body to recover is by eliminating it naturally through the renal system.
It’s important to tell your doctor about any pre-existing conditions or medication you’re on as this may interfere with and affect your use of Pradaxa. Side effects do vary from patient to patient, and you or someone you know have suffered because of Pradaxa, you may be entitled to compensation.