Dabigatran : Side Effects, Uses, Interaction and Precautions

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Generic Name— Dabigatran
Brand Name(s)— Pradaxa

What Is Dabigatran?

Dabigatran is a medication used to treat and prevent blood clots and to prevent stroke in the people with irregular heartbeat or atrial fibrillation. Dabigatran medication is used to prevent blood clots from forming after hip or knee replacement surgery.

The medicine is used as an alternative to warfarin and doesn’t need monitoring by blood tests. It is taken orally by mouth.

Dabigatran was approved for medical use in the United States in 2010.

Important Information

Dabigatran medication can cause you to bleed more easily. Ask your doctor if you have —

Nosebleeds
Bleeding gums
Blood in stools
Heavy menstrual periods
Blood while coughing
Abnormal vaginal bleeding
Blood in the urine

Many other drugs may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Dabigatran. Tell your doctor about all medications you are currently taking.

Stopping this medication suddenly may increase the risk of blood clot or stroke. Ask your doctor before you stop taking this medicine.

Interactions

Tell your doctor or health care provider about all your current medications and any you start or stop using, especially —

Mifepristone
Cobicistat
Cyclosporine
Dronedarone
Ketoconazole
Rifampin
St. John’s wort
Aspirin
Salicylates
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib

Consult with your doctor about using a different medication (such as acetaminophen) to treat pain or fever.

If you have been prescribed low—dose aspirin and related drugs such as ticlopidine and clopidogrel for specific medical reasons such as heart attack or stroke prevention, ask your doctor before taking this medication.

What Are The Side Effects Of Dabigatran?

Common side effects may include —

Nausea
Diarrhea
Stomach pain or discomfort
Indigestion

Call your doctor or health care provider if you have —

Easy bruising
Unusual bleeding
Headache
Weakness
Dizziness
Easy bruising
Pink or brown urine
Joint pain or swelling
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Blood in your urine or stools
Unusual bleeding (nose, mouth, vagina, or rectum)
Purple or red pinpoint spots under skin
Cough with bloody mucus or vomit that looks like coffee grounds

What Should I Avoid While Using Dabigatran?

It is advisable to avoid consuming alcohol. Heavy drinking may increase the risk of stomach bleeding.

Also avoid the activities that may accelerate the risk of bleeding or injury. You should take extra care to prevent bleeding while shaving or brushing your teeth.

What Happens If I Miss A Dose Of Dabigatran?

Take the medication as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dosage if you are more than 6 hours late for the dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.