Patient Resources
 
What to Expect
When Taking Pradaxa
Kidney function
Your doctor will check your kidney function with a simple blood test before you start Pradaxa, and then when needed, to make sure the dose of Pradaxa remains suitable for you.
Surgery
  • Your Pradaxa treatment may need to be stopped before surgery. Your doctor will advise you on when to stop taking Pradaxa. Once you start taking Pradaxa again, it will start working quickly.
  • Before undergoing any treatment, surgery or dental procedures make sure that you inform the doctor, specialist or dentist performing the procedure that you are taking Pradaxa.
  • If you need any emergency treatment (for example, in a hospital emergency department), be sure to inform the care providers that you are taking Pradaxa.

Pradaxa and Bleeding
The main side effect of any anticoagulant, including Pradaxa, is bleeding.
You may notice minor bleeding from time to time
For example:
  • occasional nose bleeds
  • gum bleeding while brushing teeth
  • easy bruising
  • bleeding after a minor cut that takes longer to stop than usual
  • menstrual bleeding that is a little heavier than normal
Watch out for signs of serious bleeding.
For example:
  • severe bruising that gets worse
  • any bleeding, including nose bleeds or bleeding gums, that takes a long time to stop
  • unexplained bleeding or bruising
  • menstrual bleeding that is much heavier than usual, or unexplained vaginal bleeding
 
Contact your doctor
Less obvious signs of bleeding can occur.
For example:
  • dark ink-blue or brown urine
  • ink-blue, dark brown or black bowel motions
  • coughing up blood, or anything ink-blue
  • bloody or dark stained (e.g. coffee colour) vomit
  • a severe headache or dizziness
  • weakness or lethargy
  • unusual pain, swelling or discomfort
  • any difficulty in breathing
 
Contact your doctor or go to the nearest hospital emergency department
For more information about taking Pradaxa, view the Consumer Medicine Information or see the Pradaxa information booklet for people with atrial fibrillation.
Other Side Effects of Pradaxa
  • Pradaxa is generally well tolerated.
  • A common side effect is heartburn or indigestion, also known as dyspepsia. It is important that you do not stop taking Pradaxa without talking to your doctor or pharmacist. If dyspepsia symptoms occur, taking Pradaxa with a full glass of water with or after food may help.
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What to Expect When Taking Pradaxa
 
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