Hundreds of victims taking Pradaxa have experienced bleeding severe enough to put their lives in danger. Dabigatran, the active ingredient in the medication, is prescribed to people who are suffering from arterial fibrillation, or irregular heartbeat. This disorder can result in a stroke, and Dabigatran’s anticoagulant properties can help prevent this. Unfortunately, this property can also result in major Pradaxa side effects, including uncontrolled loss of circulatory fluids.
Between March 2008 and October 2011, 260 people have died due to Pradaxa induced bleeding, according to the drug’s manufacturer, Boehringer Ingelheim. Dabigatran is most likely to cause GI problems, so any blood in urine or stools is a sign that there are complications. However, Pradaxa side effects are difficult to forecast for several reasons. Other anticoagulant medications prescribed for arterial fibrillation require regular testing to ensure that they are working correctly, but Dabigatran does not. During testing, it is often too hard to detect the substance, which is especially problematic when trying to determine any drug interactions. Because of this, Pradaxa induced bleeding often goes undetected until it is serious enough to threaten vital organs.
The FDA has been monitoring usage of Pradaxa and has determined that some doctors were originally dosing their patients improperly. Two 110mg doses per day was previously recommended by some medical experts, but this no longer considered safe, and medical experts are still not sure if this medication is safe enough for long term usage.
Anyone who has taken Pradaxa and suffered complications as a result should think about seeking the help of a knowledgeable drug injury attorney. Medical negligence can be responsible for injuries caused by this medication, and compensation may be awarded if this is the case.
Terry Bryant is Board Certified in personal injury trial law, which means his extensive knowledge of the law has been recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, setting him apart from many other injury attorneys. The 22 years he spent as a Municipal Judge, Spring Valley Village, TX also provides him keen insight into the Texas court system. That experience also helps shape his perspective on personal injury cases and how they might resolve. This unique insight benefits his clients. [ Attorney Bio ]
Terry Bryant is Board Certified in personal injury trial law, which means his extensive knowledge of the law has been recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, setting him apart from many other injury attorneys. The 22 years he spent as a Municipal Judge, Spring Valley Village, TX also provides him keen insight into the Texas court system. That experience also helps shape his perspective on personal injury cases and how they might resolve. This unique insight benefits his clients. [ 
