The Severe Side Effects of Pradaxa

Medical researchers worldwide including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have discovered that the drug Pradaxa could be a danger to the 371,000 Americans who take it. Reports suggest that256 or more people across the globe have bled to death as the result of taking the medication.
Pradaxa, also called dabigatran, is a blood thinner prescribed to people who have an increased risk of stroke, particularly those with irregular heartbeats. All blood thinning medication, anticoagulants, have some risk of increased bleeding, but medical researchers have come to understand that Pradaxa is much more harmful than other blood thinners like Warfarin.

Uncontrolled bleeding doesn’t necessarily mean bleeding from a cut or a wound that you can see; what makes Pradaxa so dangerous is that the bleeding is internal. Internal bleeding, particularly in the gastrointestinal area, can go undetected until it becomes fatal.
The FDA has issued a safety alert, cautioning Americans currently taking Pradaxa to discuss the risks with their doctors. Other countries are advocating that doctors prescribe their patients the older, but safer drug Warfarinand avoid recommending Pradaxa.

How do I prevent severe bleeding?

Avoid any activity where you might become easily cut, scratched or bruised. This may mean adjusting your daily routine, like taking extra care to prevent bleeding while shaving or brushing your teeth. It’s important not to drink alcohol as it could increase the likelihood of bleeding in your stomach or intestines.
Most importantly, ask your doctor how he or she will be monitoring your kidney function. Your kidneys clear the drug from your system, so if your kidneys aren’t functioning well, the drug will build up in your system and my cause severe internal bleeding. Kidney function needs to be tested at least once a year if not more often.

If you already have kidney disease, be absolutely sure the doctor who may prescribe Pradaxa is informed about your history.

How will I know if I’m experiencing internal bleeding?

Here are some symptoms to watch out for. If you suffer from any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare professional immediately:

• Unusual bleeding from the gums
• Nose bleeding that happens often
• Menstrual or vaginal bleeding that is heavier than normal
• Bleeding that is severe or you cannot control
• Pink or brown urine
• Red or black stools (looks like tar)
• Bruises that happen without a known cause or that get larger
• Coughing up blood or blood clots
• Vomiting blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

If you or a loved one has been affected by the use of this drug, you should talk to a Pradaxa attorney today to discuss your legal options.

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