DABIGATRAN ETEXILATE (Generic for PRADAXA)

Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Do not cut, crush or chew this medicine or empty the pellets from the capsule. Swallow the capsules whole. You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. For your therapy to work as well as possible, take each dose exactly as prescribed on the prescription label. Do not skip doses. Skipping doses or stopping this medicine can increase your risk of a blood clot or stroke. Keep taking this medicine unless your health care provider tells you to stop.
A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Talk to your health care provider about the use of this medicine in children. While it may be prescribed for children as young as 8 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

Visit your health care provider for regular checks on your progress. You may need blood work done while you are taking this medicine. Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine. It is important not to miss any appointments.
Avoid sports and activities that might cause injury while you are using this medicine. Severe falls or injuries can cause unseen bleeding. Be careful when using sharp tools or knives. Consider using an electric razor. Take special care brushing or flossing your teeth. Report any injuries, bruising, or red spots on the skin to your health care provider.
If you are going to need surgery or other procedure, tell your health care provider that you are using this medicine.
Wear a medical ID bracelet or chain. Carry a card that describes your condition. List the medicines and doses you take on the card.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If your next dose is less than 6 hours away, skip the missed dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Keep this medicine in the original container. Get rid of any unused medicine 4 months after opening.
To get rid of medicines that are no longer needed or have expired:
-Take the medicine to a medicine take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
-If you cannot return the medicine, check the label or package insert to see if the medicine should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your health care provider. If it is safe to put it in the trash, take the medicine out of the container. Mix the medicine with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.