What is Pradaxa? Uses, warnings & side effects

How to take Pradaxa

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

• Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, break, chew, or open it.

• This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.

• Missed dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If your next dose is less then 6 hours away, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep this medicine in the original container. Do not store it in pill boxes or organizers.

• Open only 1 bottle of this medicine at a time. Use each bottle within 4 months after it is opened.

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep this medicine in the original container. Do not store it in pill boxes or organizers.

• Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, break, chew, or open it.

• Open only 1 bottle of this medicine at a time. Use each bottle within 4 months after it is opened.

• This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

• Missed dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If your next dose is less then 6 hours away, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

What to do if you miss a dose of Pradaxa

Pradaxa contraindications - Who shouldn't take Pradaxa?

• This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to dabigatran, or if you have a prosthetic heart valve.

Pradaxa warnings

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, antiphospholipid syndrome, or a history of bleeding problems, stomach ulcers, spinal problems, or have had surgery on your spine.

• This medicine can cause you to bleed and bruise more easily. Take precautions to avoid injury. Brush and floss your teeth gently, do not play rough sports, and be careful with sharp objects. Severe bleeding can be life-threatening.

• Do not stop using this medicine without asking your doctor. Your risk of stroke is higher if you suddenly stop using this medicine.

• Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. You may need to stop using this medicine several days before you have surgery or medical tests.

• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

Pradaxa interactions & what to avoid when taking Pradaxa

• Some medicines can affect how dabigatran works. Tell your doctor if you are also using any of the following: DronedaroneKetoconazoleRifampinNSAID pain or arthritis medicine (including aspirin, celecoxib, diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen)

• This medicine can cause you to bleed and bruise more easily. Take precautions to avoid injury. Brush and floss your teeth gently, do not play rough sports, and be careful with sharp objects. Severe bleeding can be life-threatening.

• Do not stop using this medicine without asking your doctor. Your risk of stroke is higher if you suddenly stop using this medicine.

• Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. You may need to stop using this medicine several days before you have surgery or medical tests.

• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.