Pradaxa. Anybody else taking this?

[sphinx]

I was given no information or advice when I was prescribed this. Has anyone experienced any side effects? I understand that unlike Warfarin there is no monitoring involved.

[kirsand]

Just taken my first tablet tonight, started on 110mg rather than 150mg just to see how it goes.

Only diagnosed about two months ago.

Interested in hearing from people who have been taking it for a while, but will report back with any developments.

[SRMGrandma Volunteer]

I've been on Pradaxa for about a year and a half. I've had no side effects. It has to be taken twice a day because it has a short half life, which means it metabolizes or clears from the body quickly. To keep a steady level I always try to take my doses 12 hours apart, which for me is 6:30 a.m. and 6:30 pm. You can take it with food. It must be kept in the airtight container. Don't transfer it to any other type of pill container. It's great not having any monthly blood work required. It has outstanding stroke protection. I take 150 mg twice daily.

[dbparsons]

I am taking 150 mg twice in 24 hours, as I do a lot of international travel warfarin was impractical. Side effects I have had to cut my alcohol intake down (which is not a bad thing) otherwise I get stomach problems.

[sphinx]

Thanks for the responses, it is encouraging to know you both have had no side-effects. Many thanks.

[migmog in reply to sphinx]

Likewise on 150mg twice daily been on Pradaxa since last December - thankfully no side effects. But then a month ago had to have a minor benin carsanoma removed from face. Rather a worrying time had to be without any medication for 2 days surgery went well and thankfully back to normal apart from a 2inch scar on face. Pradaxa is too good to say 'no' to.

[sphinx]

Thanks everyone. I have been taking it a week now and I am now experiencing very loose stools, which according to the literature is a common side-effect. Could be worse.