Pradaxa

Pradaxa belongs to a class of medications known as direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). It works by inhibiting a substance in the blood called thrombin, which plays a key role in the formation of blood clots. By inhibiting thrombin, Dabigatran helps prevent the formation of blood clots and reduces the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in individuals with atrial fibrillation (an irregular heart rhythm).

Pradaxa comes in capsule form and is usually taken orally.

How to use

Here are general guidelines for the use of Pradaxa:

1. Administration: Medicine is taken orally with a full glass of water. Swallow the capsules whole; do not crush, chew, or break them unless instructed otherwise. Pradaxa can be taken with or without food.
2. Timing: Take Pradaxa at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body. It is important to establish a routine for taking your doses to ensure you do not miss any.
3. Avoid Skipping Doses: It is crucial to take drug as prescribed and not skip any doses. Skipping doses may increase the risk of blood clots and other complications. If you accidentally miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Dosage

Here are some general dosage guidelines for Pradaxa:

For Stroke Prevention in Atrial Fibrillation:

• The usual recommended dose is 150 mg taken orally twice daily.
• In certain situations, a lower dose of 110 mg taken orally twice daily may be prescribed, depending on individual factors such as age, kidney function, and bleeding risk.

For Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE) Treatment and Prevention:

• The recommended dose is 150 mg taken orally twice daily, after an initial treatment period with a parenteral anticoagulant.

For Prevention of Recurrent DVT and PE:

• The recommended dose is 150 mg taken orally twice daily, following completion of at least six months of treatment for the initial DVT or PE.

Side effects

Pradaxa may cause certain side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects that can include:

1. Gastrointestinal effects: Pradaxa can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as indigestion, upset stomach, abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea.
2. Bleeding: Medicine is an anticoagulant and can increase the risk of bleeding. It is important to be aware of signs of bleeding, such as unusual bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts, blood in urine or stools, or unexpected nosebleeds. If you experience any signs of bleeding, seek medical attention immediately.
3. Easy bruising: Dabigatran may cause easy bruising, which is characterized by the development of bruises with minimal trauma.
4. Dizziness: Some individuals may experience dizziness or lightheadedness while taking Pradaxa. It is advisable to avoid activities that require mental alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
5. Headache: Drug can occasionally cause headaches.
6. Skin reactions: In rare cases, Pradaxa may cause allergic skin reactions such as rash, itching, or hives. If you develop any skin-related symptoms, seek medical attention.
7. Liver effects: Pradaxa may rarely cause liver problems.

Storage

Pradaxa should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Here are some general guidelines for storing:

1. Temperature: Store Pradaxa at room temperature, ideally between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F). Avoid exposing the medication to extreme temperatures.
2. Moisture: Keep medicine away from moisture and humidity. Store it in a tightly closed container to protect it from moisture in the air.
3. Light: Protect Dabigatran from direct sunlight or intense artificial light. Exposure to light can degrade the medication's effectiveness.
4. Keep out of reach of children: Store capsules in a place where children cannot access it. Consider using child-resistant containers to enhance safety.
5. Medication packaging: Keep drug in its original packaging until it is time to take a dose. The packaging is designed to protect the medication from environmental factors.
6. Check expiration date: Regularly check the expiration date of Pradaxa and discard any expired medication. Expired medication may be less effective or potentially harmful.

It is important to follow the specific storage instructions provided with your Dabigatran prescription. If you have any questions or concerns about the proper storage of Pradaxa, consult your pharmacist for further guidance.

Always keep medications out of reach of children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into drains unless instructed to do so. Properly discard any unused or expired medications according to local regulations or guidelines.

Overdose

An overdose of Dabigatran can be serious and may require immediate medical attention. If you suspect an overdose or have taken more Pradaxa than prescribed, contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room right away.

Overdosing on Pradaxa can increase the risk of bleeding, which can be severe or even life-threatening. Signs of overdose may include:

1. Unusual or prolonged bleeding, such as nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in urine or stools.
2. Excessive bruising or purple spots on the skin.
3. Vomiting or coughing up blood.
4. Unexplained weakness or dizziness.
5. Abdominal pain or swelling.

In the event of a Pradaxa overdose, treatment may involve measures to stop or control bleeding, such as administering specific medications or interventions. Activated charcoal may also be used to help reduce the absorption of the medication. It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you or someone else may have overdosed.

Missed Doses

If you happen to miss a dose of Pradaxa, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.

Here are some additional points to keep in mind regarding missed doses of Pradaxa:

1. Timing: It is important to try to maintain a consistent schedule for taking Pradaxa. If you miss a dose, try to take it as soon as possible to avoid any gaps in your treatment. Setting a reminder or using an alarm can be helpful in ensuring you remember to take your doses on time.
2. Be cautious: Missing doses of Pradaxa may increase the risk of developing blood clots, especially if you are taking it for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation or treatment of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
3. Stay on track: Consistency in taking Dabigatran is important for its effectiveness in managing your condition. If you frequently forget to take your doses, consider using strategies such as pill organizers or smartphone apps to help you remember.