Dabigatran and Indigestion: What Users Say

• Som...
• January 23, 2011

For Prevention of Thromboembolism in Atrial Fibrillation "I've taken Pradaxa for two weeks and have seen a great reduction in the soreness in my joints and muscles vs Coumadin. I have also seen a steady improvement in my stamina levels. I also believe small nicks and cuts heal a little faster and bleeding is not quite as pronounced as with Coumadin when you do accidentally nick yourself. I haven't experienced any digestive problems as listed as a side effect. It may be too soon to pass judgment on this drug because of the short time I've taken it. The only negative I've found so far is the expense of Pradaxa. It is SIGNIFICANTLY more expensive than Coumadin and I hope the manufacturer of this drug will work to reduce the cost so more people can benefit from it."

• Anonymous
• February 6, 2011

For Prevention of Thromboembolism in Atrial Fibrillation "I am a new user with Pradaxa and have found the same digestive problems, severe acid reflux, and heartburn. Also, I have had bleeding ulcers twice so I'm a bit concerned about that. However, I checked with my doctor, who told me to take the pill after meals. I tried this, but also discovered the pills must be taken IMMEDIATELY after eating food (not snacks but full meals). I also use Ranitidine with the Pradaxa and found it works. Much more comfort, almost no heartburn, just a slight sensation. I haven't had an INT test, so at the moment, I don't know if my coagulation levels are okay. But I will do that soon. Overall, I feel that using this new medicine I feel better, so I hope this will continue, it's a bit early to make the final judgment."

• Jes...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 9, 2017

For Prevention of Thromboembolism in Atrial Fibrillation "Started December 2016, afib caused by thyroid. Lethargic, painful muscles and joints like I have the flu, swelling/bloated all over, indigestion enough to be hospitalized...overall not great...wish I didn't have to take it!"

• Anonymous
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 30, 2017

For Pulmonary Embolism "I'm on anticoagulants permanently, previously on Warfarin without symptoms for three years before trying Pradaxa. I have chronic gastritis, GORD, plus an average of 2-3 episodes of intestinal tract infections per year due to diverticulosis. I tried Pradaxa 110 mg twice daily for two weeks, with bad symptoms developing after three days and becoming progressively worse. Feeling unwell, tired, acid reflux, indigestion, upper abdominal ache and pain, bloating, belching, farting, diarrhea, loose stools, and lastly, constipation in a person who has always been as regular as clockwork. I took Pradaxa with food and 500 mls of water and 20 ml of antacid. Bad move. Back to Warfarin."

• hea...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• June 7, 2012

For Prevention of Thromboembolism in Atrial Fibrillation "I had been on Coumadin for over 10 years and thought Pradaxa would be a godsend. However, within a few months of taking it, I began to have bad stomach pain and digestive issues. My internist diagnosed me with a peptic ulcer and urged me to consult with my cardiologist about stopping the Pradaxa and going back on Coumadin, which I did. In the 3 months since I have discontinued Pradaxa, I am still getting over the stomach/digestive issues (which I have never had before in my life) and am getting my blood PT/INRs back to normal as well."

• Anonymous
• August 27, 2011

For Prevention of Thromboembolism in Atrial Fibrillation "I have been taking Pradaxa for about 3 weeks now. The first week I took it, I had severe indigestion. The doctor thought I was having a heart attack. Went to the ER, and it ended up being indigestion. I have had no problems in the past with any other medicines. The doctor suggested I take Pradaxa 2 hours before bed and do some light activity before so it won't bother me. I still am having some indigestion. I had to be put on Nexium. The doctor wants me to try it for 2 more weeks to see if the symptoms will go away."