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Dabigatran: uses, side effects & brands
Dabigatran is a newer fixed-dose blood thinner for atrial fibrillation and clots. It belongs to the Blood thinner (anticoagulant) group. These reduce the blood’s tendency to clot, preventing strokes and dangerous clots.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Blood thinner (anticoagulant) |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Preventing stroke in atrial fibrillation
- Treating clots in legs or lungs
- Preventing clots after hip or knee replacement
Common brand names
- India: Pradaxa, Dabimet
- Worldwide: Pradaxa
Common side effects
- Indigestion or stomach pain
- Bruising
- Nosebleeds or bleeding gums
- Nausea
Before taking it — precautions
- It is cleared mainly by the kidneys; kidney function needs checking
- Swallow capsules whole; do not open them
- Tell your doctor about other blood thinners, painkillers like ibuprofen, and pregnancy
When to see a doctor urgently
- Black or bloody stools, or vomiting blood (urgent)
- Severe headache, confusion or weakness (possible brain bleed, urgent)
- Bleeding that will not stop
Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of dabigatran depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need INR tests on dabigatran?
No, routine INR monitoring is not needed, unlike warfarin, but kidney tests are.
Why should I not open the capsule?
Opening it can greatly increase the amount absorbed and the bleeding risk.
Is there an antidote?
Yes, a specific reversal medicine exists for emergencies, used in hospital.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.