Pradaxa

Use of Pradaxa 

Pradaxa  provides advanced anticoagulation therapy, specifically designed to prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF).

Mechanism of Action

Pradaxa  contains dabigatran, a direct thrombin inhibitor that prevents the formation of blood clots by inhibiting thrombin, an enzyme essential for the clotting process. By targeting thrombin directly, Pradaxa  offers rapid and reliable anticoagulation without the need for frequent monitoring.

Precautions and Warnings

Here are some of the warnings you should remember before taking Pradaxa:

• Avoid use of Pradaxa  in patients with mechanical prosthetic heart valves or those with a history of prosthetic heart valve replacement.
• Use caution when administering Pradaxa  to patients with renal impairment, as dosage adjustments may be necessary.
• Inform healthcare providers about any history of bleeding disorders, gastrointestinal ulcers, or liver disease before initiating Pradaxa  therapy.
• Pradaxa  should be used with caution in patients at increased risk of bleeding, such as those with uncontrolled hypertension or concomitant use of other anticoagulants.

Dosage

The recommended dosage of Pradaxa  for stroke prevention in patients with NVAF is 150 mg taken orally twice daily, with or without food. In patients with renal impairment, dosage adjustments may be required based on creatinine clearance levels.

Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Bleeding
• Gastrointestinal discomfort
• Dyspepsia
• Gastritis
• Anemia
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Indigestion
• Upper respiratory tract infection

More information about Praxada

• Product Monograph – Health Canada
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration Medication Guide