How Safe is Pradaxa?

In October 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Pradaxa capsules (dabigatran etexilate) to prevent stroke and blood clots in patients with abnormal heart rhythm (atrial fibrillation). Pradaxa replaced warfarin, an anti-coagulant drug that heart patients have used for decades.

Certainly, Pradaxa has saved lives—patients taking it suffered fewer life-threatening or major bleeds (including intracranial bleeds) than patients using warfarin. But does this mean taking Pradaxa is safe for all patients? Unfortunately, no.

Since Pradaxa’s FDA approval, there have been many problems associated with the drug, including serious and potentially fatal bleeding. In 2011, the FDA received reports of 3,781 adverse effects and 542 deaths connected to Pradaxa, according to an article in USA Today. These numbers surpass those of any other monitored drug.

Millions of Americans take Pradaxa twice daily—and may be putting themselves at high risk of serious injury and death. If Pradaxa has injured you or a loved one, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact a Pradaxa lawyer at Sokolove Law today for a free legal consultation. Sokolove Law is an experienced Pradaxa law firm, with Pradaxa attorneys ready to help get you the compensation you deserve.

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