Pradaxa Capsule Side Effects (Nuksanat)
HIGH RISK MEDICINE: The most dangerous side effect of Pradaxa (dabigatran) is major bleeding, including intracranial haemorrhage and GI bleeding, which can be life-threatening. Seek emergency help immediately for any severe or unusual bleeding.
Pradaxa (dabigatran etexilate) prevents blood clots but also reduces the blood's ability to stop bleeding when needed. This creates a risk of bleeding at any site. Below is a comprehensive overview of all known side effects.
Common Side Effects (Aam Nuksanat)
- Minor bleeding: nosebleeds, bleeding gums, prolonged bleeding from minor cuts
- Bruising more easily than usual
- Dyspepsia (indigestion, heartburn, stomach discomfort)
- Nausea or stomach pain
These side effects are relatively common. Report any that persist or worsen to your doctor.
Serious Side Effects (Sanjeedah Nuksanat) — SEEK EMERGENCY HELP
- Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding — black tarry stools, blood in vomit — EMERGENCY
- Intracranial haemorrhage (brain bleed) — sudden severe headache, weakness, vision/speech changes — EMERGENCY
- Major internal bleeding — unusual severe pain, dizziness, feeling faint — EMERGENCY
- Anaphylaxis/hypersensitivity — throat swelling, difficulty breathing — EMERGENCY
Signs of Serious Bleeding — Call Emergency (Falij / Khoon beh raha ho to kya karein)
| Warning Sign | Action |
|---|---|
| Black, tarry, or bloody stools | Seek emergency help NOW |
| Vomiting blood or coffee-ground material | Seek emergency help NOW |
| Pink/red/dark urine | See a doctor urgently |
| Sudden severe headache with weakness | Seek emergency help NOW |
| Unusually heavy menstrual bleeding | See a doctor |
| Bleeding that won't stop | Apply pressure and seek emergency help |
When to See a Doctor (Kab Doctor Se Milna Zaroori Hai)
- Any unusual, prolonged, or severe bleeding that does not stop
- Blood in urine or black tarry stools
- Sudden severe headache, dizziness, weakness, or vision changes
- Signs of an allergic reaction: skin rash, swelling of lips/throat
Key Warnings and Precautions (Ihtiyat)
- Do NOT stop Pradaxa abruptly without your doctor's advice — sudden stopping can trigger stroke
- Do NOT take with NSAIDs (ibuprofen, diclofenac) without medical supervision — increases bleeding risk significantly
- Inform ALL doctors and dentists that you are on Pradaxa before any procedure or surgery
- Renal function must be monitored regularly — kidney disease increases bleeding risk
Reporting Side Effects
If you notice any unexpected side effect, report it on the DRAP pharmacovigilance portal: https://www.dra.gov.pk/pharmacovigilance
The information in this guide is for educational purposes only. If you notice any side effect — especially any bleeding — contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately.