What is Pradaxa (Dabigatran) prescribed for?
Pradaxa is a blood thinner prescribed to treat irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation). Managing this condition can reduce your risk of strokes and blood clots. It is also used to treat blood clots in your lungs (pulmonary embolism) and legs (deep vein thrombosis). Pradaxa (Dabigatran) lowers the risk of forming a recurring blood clot or stroke. Besides preventing blood clots after hip replacement surgery, this medication is also helpful in preventing them from forming. As an anticoagulant, Pradaxa prevents the formation of blood clots by blocking a substance called thrombin in your blood. This keeps your blood flowing smoothly.
Pradaxa (Dabigatran) Information
How to use Pradaxa
The medication should be taken by mouth, usually twice a day, with or without food as directed by your doctor. To prevent clots after hip or knee replacement surgery, take it as directed by your doctor, usually once daily.
The first dose should be taken in the morning and the second dose in the evening (about 12 hours apart). Dabigatran may not work well if you take antacids within 48 hours after surgery. If you have a stomach upset, take the medication with food.
Ensure that you swallow the capsules whole with eight ounces of water. Avoid crushing, chewing, or breaking open the capsules. Doing so releases the entire dose at once and increases the risk of side effects.
Medications such as this one should not be put in pill boxes or medication reminder boxes. They should be kept tightly closed in their original bottles (or blister packages) to prevent moisture from getting into them.
Your dose is based on your condition, the function of your kidneys, the response to the treatment, and other medications. You should tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications you are taking. This includes prescription medications, non-prescription drugs, and herbal supplements. Children's dosages are also determined by their weight and age.
Taking this medication at the same time(s) each day helps you remember to take it regularly.
The best way to take this medication is to follow the directions exactly. You should not take the medication at a higher dose or more often than instructed. If you stop taking it, consult your doctor right away.
Possible side effects of Pradaxa
Few known side effects of Dabigatran Tablet include:
- severe heartburn
- stomach upset
- heartburn
- abdominal or stomach pain
- nausea
- nausea
- skin rash
- indigestion
- bruising and risk of bleeding (such as nosebleeds and bleeding from cuts)
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- itching
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
Drug Interactions of Pradaxa Tablet
Few Known Drug Interactions of Dabigatran Tablet:
- Gabapentin
- Losartan
- Metoprolol
- Metoprolol Succinate Er (Metoprolol)
- Simvastatin
- Metoprolol Tartrate (Metoprolol)
- Tamsulosin
- Lisinopril
- Tramadol
- Amiodarone
- Pantoprazole
- Lipitor (Atorvastatin)
- Atenolol
- Allopurinol
- Carvedilol
- Hydrochlorothiazide
- Levothyroxine
- Spironolactone
- Aspirin
- Potassium Chloride
- Omeprazole
- Metformin
- Digoxin
- Lasix (Furosemide)
- Amlodipine
- Atorvastatin
- Crestor (Rosuvastatin)
This is not a complete list of Drug Interactions. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without consulting your doctor. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience an adverse reaction to Pradaxa.
Pradaxa cost in Canada
Starting price of Pradaxa Capsule 75mg Cost in Canada
- 30 capsules - $124.41 USD ($4.15 per capsules)
- 60 capsules - $214.60 USD ($3.58 per capsules)
- 90 capsules - $316.35 USD ($3.51 per capsules)
Generic Equivalent Dabigatran cost in Canada
Starting price of Dabigatran Capsule 75mg (Generic Equivalent to Pradaxa) Cost in Canada
- 30 capsules - $100.42 USD ($3.35 per capsules)
- 60 capsules - $181.88 USD ($3.03 per capsules)
- 90 capsules - $263.46 USD ($2.93 per capsules)
Pradaxa (Dabigatran) FAQs
How do you know that Pradaxa is working?
An INR (international normalized ratio) or clotting time test may be ordered by the doctor in order to determine Pradaxa's efficacy. Additionally, if the INR is within the desired range, it indicates that Pradaxa is effectively preventing blood clots. Additionally, people may be monitored by their doctors for signs of stroke and blood clots. In order to ensure that Pradaxa is working effectively and to monitor any potential side effects,
Is Pradaxa an anticoagulant?
Yes, Pradaxa is an anticoagulant medication. It works by inhibiting thrombin, which is a key component in the blood clotting process.
How long does Pradaxa stay in your system?
In people with normal kidney function, Pradaxa has a half-life of approximately 12-17 hours. The body eliminates half of the drug within 12-17 hours.
Can I Buy Pradaxa Over the Counter?
No, you cannot buy Pradaxa over the counter since it is a prescription medication. Prescriptions can only be written by licensed healthcare providers, such as physicians or nurse practitioners.