Approved by the FDA in October 2010 for use as a blood thinner, Pradaxa was formulated to prevent blood clots in those with atrial fibrillation, or irregular heartbeats.
But Pradaxa has been under scrutiny for causing heart attacks and internal bleeding, after worldwide reports have reflected these adverse effects. Studies in both New Zealand and Japan reflect as much as a 33% higher risk for the fatal health risks from the drug, as compared to in those taking warfarin.
Warfarin is a generic term for a blood thinner that stops clots by interrupting the formation of Vitamin K, a nutrient your body needs to form clots. Two of the more common warfarin brands include Coumadin and Jantoven.
Pradaxa, on the other hand, works by targeting the blood’s central clotting agent, thrombin.
Zoll, Kranz and Borgess, LLC is investigating the claims that Pradaxa is detrimental to health, and we are currently researching the links between the drug and internal bleeding and heart attack.
Warning signs of internal bleeding include:
- Bright red blood coating the stool
- Dark blood mixed with the stool
- Black or tarry stool
- Bright red blood in vomit
- “Coffee-grounds” appearance of vomit
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Brown or pink urine
- Headaches
- Dizziness
Heart attack warnings signs include:
- Chest discomfort, including pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain
- Arm pain
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Jaw pain
- Stomach pain
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweats
- Nausea
- Feeling light-headed
If you have been taking Pradaxa and have experienced any of the above symptoms, contact us immediately by using the form to the right, by calling us toll-free at 888.841.9623 or by emailing Anneke at anneke@toledolaw.com.