Dabigatran Etexilate
Dabigatran Etexilate is an oral anticoagulant (blood thinner) that works as a direct thrombin inhibitor to prevent dangerous blood clots. It is commonly prescribed to reduce the risk of stroke and blood clots in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, and to treat or prevent deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.
An oral anticoagulant that prevents blood clots by directly inhibiting thrombin, used to reduce stroke risk and treat blood clots.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- B01AE07
- RxNorm
- 1037042
- Generic
- Dabigatran Etexilate
- Class
- atc-b01
- Brands
- Pradaxa
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, treatment of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, and prevention of recurrent blood clots after initial treatment.
Dabigatran and its acyl glucuronides competitively inhibit thrombin (a serine protease), preventing the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin in the coagulation cascade, thereby stopping thrombus formation.
Unlike warfarin, dabigatran does not require routine INR monitoring but carries a risk of bleeding. Patients should not discontinue suddenly without medical advice. Contraindicated in patients with prosthetic heart valves, active bleeding, or severe renal impairment. May interact with other anticoagulants, antiplatelets, and certain medications.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy