Pradaxa® (dabigatran) has been linked to abdominal pain (upper and/or lower abdominal pain) in some patients. The abdominal pain linked to Pradaxa® is not a mild case of a side-ache or stomachache; it's much worse and longer-lasting. A person who is being treated with Pradaxa® for any length of time should be aware that abdominal pain can be a sign of a serious problem such as gastrointestinal bleeding, which may produce abdominal pain.
Pradaxa®'s Abdominal Pain Warning
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In fact, the prescribing Information for Pradaxa® tells physicians that they should:
"Instruct patients to call their health care provider if they experience any signs or symptoms of dyspepsia or gastritis:
- Dyspepsia (upset stomach), burning, or nausea
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Epigastric discomfort, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)"
Causes of Abdominal Pain
However, Pradaxa® (dabigatran) patients should be aware that abdominal pain may be the result of something else. Other possible causes of abdominal pain include:
- appendicitis
- cholecystitis
- esophageal cancer
- esophageal spasm
- esophageal varices
- esophagitis
- food poisoning
- GERD
- heartburn
Severe Abdominal Pain
Severe and sudden abdominal pain may be a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding (e.g., a rupture of the stomach or intestines or blood vessels), or appendicitis. The combination of Pradaxa® treatment with other medications, which are often necessary in a given patient, can also cause abdominal pain. In addition, constipation (from whatever cause) can contribute to abdominal pain.
When to See a Doctor
It's never too soon to contact your doctor if you're experiencing serious abdominal pain, especially if the pain is not going away and it's not explainable (e.g., you were doing exercises or physical activity that could cause abdominal muscle pain). Whether it's sharp abdominal pain that comes on abruptly or a mild abdominal pain that gradually gets worse over hours or days, it's best to contact your physician about the pain.
When to See a Pradaxa® (dabigatran) Injury Attorney
If you have suffered from severe abdominal pain or other Pradaxa® side effects since you started your Pradaxa treatment, it's never too soon to contact an attorney who represents individuals who have been harmed by a medication. An attorney can fill you in on the potential dangers associated with the medication and can determine whether you have a legitimate claim.
To schedule a free consultation with a Pradaxa® injury attorney, please contact us today.
