Pradaxa and Xarelto are prescription blood-thinner medications called a direct thrombin inhibitor and they both are developed to prevent the formation of blood clots in the body. Approved for use in the US in 2010, Pradaxa was presented as a convenient alternative to older anticoagulants, like Coumadin/Warfarin, because it had similar rates of efficacy, but did not require the frequent blood testing and monitoring. Unfortunately, Pradaxa had another major difference when compared with the older drugs; there is no specific method for the reversal of bleeding that may occur during Pradaxa use. This quality of the drug has become the source of controversy in the wake of the discovery hundreds of Pradaxa related deaths. The FDA is currently conducting an evaluation of this information in an attempt to assess the safety of Pradaxa.

Types of Pradaxa & Xarelto Bleeding

Because it works as a blood-thinner and inhibits the formation of blood clots, Xarelto and Pradaxa have been linked to several different types of severe uncontrollable bleeding. Because there is no specific method for the reversal of Pradaxa and Xarelto bleeding, the results can be physically devastating and even potentially fatal. All of the serious types of bleeding have been experienced by patients prescribed Pradaxa:

Internal Bleeding: Internal bleeding is bleeding that occurs within the body and is not able to be seen. This type of Pradaxa bleeding can occur in many different places inside of the body including organs, tissues, and body cavities like the stomach, chest or even head. Because it cannot be seen outside of the body, internal bleeding may not be identified for many hours after it begins. Anti-clotting medicines like Pradaxa make internal bleeding especially dangerous and serious bleeding events may occur following what would otherwise be a minor injury. Because there is no specific method for the reversal of bleeding in patients who take Pradaxa, internal bleeding carries with it higher risks of complications including shock, organ failure, and even death.

Cerebral Hemorrhaging: A cerebral hemorrhage (also called a brain hemorrhage, intracerebral hemorrhage, intracranial hemorrhage) is a type of bleeding that occurs when an artery in the brain explodes and excessive bleeding occurs in the surrounding areas. The bleeding can take place in the actual brain matter or in the membranes and tissues that surround the brain. As the blood collects it increases pressure on the brain which decreases the flow of blood and kills necessary brain cells. When a cerebral hemorrhage takes places in someone that uses Pradaxa, it can be harder to treat because there is no specific method for the reversal of the bleeding effects of the medication. Complications include stroke, permanent loss of brain function, and even death.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Gastrointestinal bleeding is another type of serious bleeding that can be made worse due to an absence of method for the reversal of Pradaxa’s bleeding qualities. Usually gastrointestinal bleeding, also called GI bleeding, is a symptom of another condition rather than a medical condition in and of itself. Bleeding can occur at many different locations in both the upper and lower digestive tract. The upper digestive tract is comprised of the esophagus, stomach, and top of the small intestine, while the lower digestive tract is made of the bottom of the small intestine, as well as the colon, rectum, and anus. Most of the time GI bleeding is related to conditions like ulcers and hemorrhoids, but it can also be linked to life threatening causes of bleeding.

File a Pradaxa or Xarelto Lawsuit: Speak to an Attorney

If you or someone that you know has suffered from internal bleeding or another injury while taking the medication Xarelto or  Pradaxa, call the Willis Law Firm today for a free Pradaxa lawsuit review. You may be entitled to significant financial compensation, and when you call we will be able to assess your potential claim. All Pradaxa and  Xarelto internal bleeding cases are taken on a contingency fee basis, and presently our firm is reviewing these cases on a national level.