Brand Name: Pradaxa
Generic Name: dabigatran 

Drug Class: Direct Thrombin Inhibitor
Manufacturer: Boehringer Ingelheim
Approval Date: October 2010

What is Pradaxa and how does it work 

Pradaxa is an oral anticoagulant that prevents blood clots by blocking the action of thrombin, an enzyme that causes blood to clot. The half-life of Pradaxa is 12 to 14 hours. 

What does Pradaxa treat

Pradaxa is used for preventing stroke caused by blood clots in individuals with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. 

How effective is Pradaxa

Pradaxa 150 mg daily was significantly better than warfarin in reducing the occurrence of stroke. See Pradaxa Versus Warfarin: Efficacy and Side Effects

What are interesting facts about Pradaxa

• Orally administered
• Does not need to be monitored with lab tests
• There is no antidote for Pradaxa reversal
• Inhibits thrombin directly
• Must be used within 4 months after vial is opened

Pradaxa dosing and administration

150 mg orally twice daily for most patients. 75 mg twice daily for those with reduced renal function. 

What are the side effects of Pradaxa

Common: Bleeding, gastritis, abdominal pain

Serious: Any life-threatening bleed, gastrointestinal bleeding, intracranial (brain) bleeding, allergic reactions

Pradaxa drug Interactions

• Rifampin
• Amiodarone
• Verapamil
• Quinidine
• Plavix (clopidogrel)

What is the price of Pradaxa

30 capsules cost about $148 to $160

How to obtain prescription assistance for Pradaxa

For prescription assistance for Pradaxa contact Boehringer Ingelheim Prescription Assistance Program.

References: Pradaxa FDA Prescribing Information and Medication Guide. 

Last Update: 7/2013