Dabigatran etexilate is the active ingredient in Pradaxa, a blood-thinning medication. Dabigatran etexilate is a prodrug, which means that it does not affect the body, but is broken down into another form which does affect the body. Dabigatran etexilate is broken down to form dabigatran, a drug which interacts with a component of the blood called thrombin. Thrombin is responsible for forming clots in the blood. Dabigatran etexilate impairs thrombin so that it cannot form clots.
For more information, see Pradaxa (dabigatran etexilate).
All content and media on the HealthEngine Blog is created and published online for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard the advice of a medical professional, or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this Website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the nearest hospital emergency department, or call the emergency services immediately.
