Health News

When Patients on Blood Thinners Have a Stroke
Although lifesavers in many cases, anticoagulants can cause dangerous bleeding. Reversing that problem, however, may now be easier than ever before.
Pradaxa Reversal Rx Approved
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today granted accelerated approval to Praxbind (idarucizumab) for use in patients who are taking the anticoagulant Pradaxa (dabigatran) during emergency situations when there is a need to reverse Pradaxa’s blood-thinning effects.
How to Choose an Anticoagulant
If you need to take an anticoagulant — popularly known as a blood thinner — you don’t want it to cause bleeding, but some might raise your bleeding risk. 
Abnormal Heartbeat Rx May Pose Major Bleeding Risk
When the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved dabigatran in 2010, it highlighted the medication's ability to prevent stroke. Since then, some have raised concerns that the blood-thinning medication may cause severe bleeding.
Reports Claim Drug Company Withheld Important Safety Information
The maker of a new anti-clotting medication may have withheld important safety information from regulators, according to several new reports.
GI Bleeding Higher in Pradaxa vs. Warfarin
The prescription blood-thinners Pradaxa (dabigatran) and warfarin aim to reduce stroke and other cardiovascular disorders, but like most medications, they do carry some risks.
FDA Compares Risks of Pradaxa and Warfarin
FDA research has taken a closer look at the risks of two medications commonly used to lower the risk for stroke and blood clots.
FDA Approves Pradaxa for Clotting Disorders
US regulators have approved a medication to treat and reduce two dangerous clotting disorders.
Blood Thinners Recommended for AFib Patients
People with atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder, face a high likelihood of stroke. To reduce the risk, the American Academy of Neurology recommends taking anticoagulants.
Dabigatran a Danger for Mechanical Valves?
Some patients with weak heart valves opt to get an artificial valve to improve heart function. These valves require lifelong anticlotting medication, but some medications may be more effective than others.