The potential Pradaxa® (dabigatran etexilate) side effects that are acknowledged by this anticoagulant drug's manufacturer are as follows:
- bleeding which can be serious, and sometimes lead to death
- it may take longer for any bleeding to stop
- unexpected bleeding or bleeding that lasts a long time
- unusual bleeding from the gums
- frequent nose bleeds
- menstrual bleeding that is heavier than normal
- bleeding that is severe or you cannot control
- bruises that happen without a known cause or get larger
- bruising more easily
- coughing up blood or blood clots
- feeling dizzy or weak
- headaches
- pink or brown urine
- red or black stools
- unexpected pain, swelling, or joint pain
- vomiting blood or vomit that looks like "coffee grounds"
Serious Side Effects of Pradaxa®
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The FDA approved Pradaxa® (dabigatran) in October 2010, for the prevention of strokes in patients with a heart condition called non-valvular atrial fibrillation (also known as "AF"). Thus, it's hardly 'over a year old' as an anticoagulant in the U.S., and some critics of Pradaxa® have contended that the drug wasn't tested thoroughly enough before it was put on the market.
One of the most serious potential side effects of Pradaxa® is heart attacks. The FDA has received so many reports of Pradaxa®-linked heart attacks that it is conducting its own investigation. Another very serious potential side effect of Pradaxa® is internal bleeding.
Pradaxa® Internal Bleeding
In November of 2011, a European counterpart to the FDA cited over 250 cases of fatal internal bleeding linked to Pradaxa®/dabigatran (a differently named version of Pradaxa® was on the market in Europe before it was released in the U.S.). The FDA has also received reports of Pradaxa®-associated internal bleeding here in the U.S.
Signs and symptoms of internal bleeding include:
- Throwing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
- Unexplained bleeding or bruising
- Swelling in the ankles, feet, lower legs, hands and/or arms
- Excess fatigue
- Nosebleeds, bleeding from the gums
- Coughing up blood
- Dark colored urine
Pradaxa® and Heart Attacks
Studies have also shown that Pradaxa® may increase the risk of heart attack. In a study of 18,000 patients, it was found that Pradaxa® treatment produces a 38 percent higher risk of heart attack than warfarin, an anticoagulant that has been used for many years.
Signs and symptoms of heart attacks include:
- Pain in the chest, feelings of squeezing or fullness in the center of the chest
- Pain that spreads to the shoulders, arms, back, neck, teeth or jaw
- Feelings similar to heartburn
- Shortness of breath
- Feelings of anxiety
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Clammy skin, sweating
- Nausea and/or vomiting
If you or someone you love has suffered from a heart attack, internal bleeding, or other serious side effect while taking Pradaxa® (dabigatran), we may be able to help you seek compensation for your suffering. To learn more, contact our Pradaxa® lawyers today.
