Dabigatran (Pradaxa)
$1.00
Pradaxa (Dabigatran) is a blood thinner that prevents and treats blood clots and reduces stroke risk in people with atrial fibrillation.
Drug Information
1 review for Dabigatran (Pradaxa)
Pradaxa contains Dabigatran.
Dabigatran is a blood thinner (anticoagulant). It helps prevent and treat harmful blood clots.
It is used to prevent stroke in people with atrial fibrillation, to treat and prevent DVT and PE, and after hip or knee replacement. It does not need regular INR tests, and there is a medicine that can quickly reverse its effect in an emergency.
What is it used for?
- Preventing stroke in atrial fibrillation
- Treating and preventing DVT and PE
- Preventing clots after hip or knee replacement
How does it work?
Dabigatran blocks thrombin, a key protein that turns blood into a clot. This makes clots less likely to form.
This information is written in simple words to help you understand this product. It does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
Read these points before you start. If any of them apply to you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist first.
- This medicine makes you bleed more easily. Tell every doctor, dentist and pharmacist that you take it, especially before surgery or dental work.
- Do not take painkillers like aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen unless your doctor says so. Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is usually safer.
- Tell your doctor if you have a bleeding problem, a stomach ulcer, recent surgery, a recent stroke or bleed, very high blood pressure, or liver or kidney problems.
- Many medicines and herbal remedies (such as St John's wort, fish oil and ginkgo) can change how it works. Always check before taking anything new.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
- Carry a card or alert that says you take a blood thinner.
- Do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor. Stopping suddenly raises the risk of a stroke or clot.
- Tell your doctor if you have an artificial (mechanical) heart valve. This type of medicine is not suitable for mechanical valves.
- Tell your doctor if you have antiphospholipid syndrome.
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems. Dabigatran leaves the body mostly through the kidneys.
- Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every other medicine, vitamin or herbal product you use.
- Keep this product out of the reach and sight of children.
Like all medicines, Pradaxa can cause side effects, but not everybody gets them.
Common side effects
- Bruising more easily
- Bleeding gums when brushing
- Nosebleeds
- Heavier periods
- Indigestion or stomach pain
These are usually mild and often get better as your body gets used to it. Tell your doctor if they bother you or do not go away.
Stop using it and get medical help straight away if you notice:
- Blood in your urine (pink, red or brown) or black, tarry stools
- Coughing up blood or vomit that is bloody or looks like coffee grounds
- A nosebleed or cut that will not stop bleeding
- A severe headache, sudden weakness, confusion or trouble speaking (possible bleeding in the brain)
- A fall or bang to the head, even if you feel fine
This is not a complete list. If you notice anything unusual, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- Take it twice a day, about 12 hours apart.
- Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water. Do not open, chew or empty the capsule, as this greatly increases the amount absorbed.
- Take it with food if it upsets your stomach.
- A common dose for atrial fibrillation is 150 mg twice a day, or 110 mg twice a day for older people.
- Keep the capsules in the original package to protect them from moisture.
If you miss a dose: If there are more than 6 hours until your next dose, take it now. If there are fewer than 6 hours, skip it. Never take two doses at once.
If you use too much: Contact your doctor, a poison control centre or your local emergency number straight away, even if you feel fine. Take the pack with you.
How to store it: Keep the capsules in the original blister or bottle, below 25°C (77°F). If using a bottle, close it tightly and use within 4 months of opening.
- QWhat should I do before dental work on Pradaxa?
- A
Tell your dentist you take a blood thinner. For most simple treatments you keep taking it, but your dentist or doctor will tell you if anything needs to change.
- QCan I drink alcohol with Pradaxa?
- A
Small amounts are usually OK, but heavy drinking raises the risk of bleeding.
- QDo I need regular blood tests on Pradaxa?
- A
You do not need regular INR tests like with warfarin, but your doctor will check your kidneys and blood count from time to time.

Adam Collins –
I ordered Dabigatran from here last week and the whole thing was hassle free. Their staff was patient with my questions. I was not left waiting long, the delivery was quick.