Pradaxa was first approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration in the fall of 2010 for the treatment of atrial fibrillation from a cause other than a heart valve issue. As a blood-thinner, Pradaxa reduces the ability of blood to clot, thereby reducing the risk of stroke and other related issues, such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Patients who suffer from AFib are about five times more likely to suffer from stroke. Warfarin, an older type of anticoagulant treatment, was the medication primarily used for similar treatments before Pradaxa was released. When Pradaxa was first approved by the FDA, many patients quickly switched from warfarin. It is important to note that there are several key differences between Pradaxa and Warfarin which will be outlined in detail below:
Pradaxa Vs Warfarin: A Closer Look
Pradaxa is a DTI (direct thrombin inhibitor) and acts directly on thrombin, the bloods central clotting agent. Because of this, there is currently no antidote to its effects. Pradaxa may take up to 24 hours for the effects to wear off, even in the event of a serious bleeding incident.
Warfarin is a vitamin K antagonist, which means that it interferes with the levels of Vitamin K in the body. Vitamin K produces proteins that encourage clotting. This means that in the event of a major bleeding incident, ingesting large amounts of Vitamin K could potentially offset the anti-clotting effects of the drug.
Pradaxa cannot be counteracted with a prothrombin complex concentrate. In fact, there is no way to rapidly reverse Pradaxa’s effects.
Warfarin effects can be rapidly reversed using a prothrombin complex concentrate, as well as through intravenous Vitamin K.
Pradaxa was approved by the FDA for the treatment of AFib not from heart valve problem in 2010, only 2 years ago.
Warfarin has been prescribed by doctors for the prevention of stroke since 1954, almost 50 years. Throughout this time period it has also been studied extensively.
Pradaxa does not require regular blood monitoring and testing.
Patients taking Warfarin require regular blood monitoring in order to measure the International Normalized Ratio, which determines how long it would take your blood to form a clot.
Pradaxa is currently the subject of an FDA investigation regarding a large number of bleeding incidents that resulted in death.
Warfarin is not currently under FDA safety investigation.
File a Pradaxa Lawsuit: Speak with an Attorney
If you have suffered from bleeding or other serious side effects resulting from treatment with Pradaxa, you may want to consider pursuing a lawsuit. Call the Willis Firm today and we will provide you with a completely free and personalized consultation in order to discuss your legal options regarding this potentially harmful drug. You may be eligible for sizeable compensation for all of the suffering you have incurred as a result of your Pradaxa injuries. Don’t delay; contact us today.