Pradaxa is an oral anticoagulant that contains dabigatran etexilate, a direct thrombin inhibitor. It prevents and treats blood clots by blocking thrombin, the key enzyme in clot formation. It is prescribed for stroke prevention in non-valvular atrial fibrillation, treatment and prevention of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), and for clot prevention after hip replacement surgery.
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Dosage (Adults)
Non-valvular Atrial Fibrillation: 150 mg twice daily (adjusted to 75 mg twice daily if kidney function is reduced).
DVT & PE Treatment/Prevention: 150 mg twice daily after 5–10 days of initial parenteral anticoagulation.
After Hip Replacement Surgery: 110 mg once after surgery (within 1–4 hours), then 220 mg once daily for 28–35 days.
> ⚠️ Doses vary with kidney function, age, weight, and drug interactions. Capsules must be swallowed whole—not crushed or opened.
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Side Effects
Common:
Indigestion, stomach pain, nausea
Minor bleeding (nosebleeds, gums, bruising)
Heartburn
Serious:
Severe bleeding (GI bleeding, brain hemorrhage)
Spinal/epidural hematoma (after spinal injections)
Allergic reactions (swelling, rash, difficulty breathing)
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Warnings & Precautions
Do not discontinue abruptly—stopping suddenly increases clot risk.
Contraindicated in patients with mechanical heart valves.
Use with caution in those with kidney impairment.
Inform doctors before surgery, dental work, or spinal procedures.
Antidote: Life-threatening bleeding can be reversed with idarucizumab (Praxbind).
