By David Liu, Ph.D.

This is to alert readers to the potential side effects of dabigatran.

Thursday Jan 12, 2012 (foodconsumer.org) -- A recent review study linked use of dabigatran with elevated risk of heart attack (myocardial infarction) or acute coronary syndrome.

The study released in the Jan 9, 2012 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine analysed data from seven trials including two studies on stroke prophylaxis in atrial 

fibrillation, one study on acute venous thromboembolism, one study in acute coronary syndrome, and 3 studies on short-term prophylaxis of deep venous thrombosis.

Uchino K and Hernandez AV at Neurological Institute and Cleveland Clinic conducted a meta analysis and found "Dabigatran was significantly associated with a 33 percent 

higher risk of MI (myocardial infarction) or ACS (acute coronary syndrome) than that seen with agents used in the control group.

They also found the risk of MI (myocardial infarction) or ACS (acute coronary syndrome) was 27 percent higher when using revised RE-LY trial results or 33 percent higher 

after exclusion of short-term trials, respectively, compared with controls.

The authors concluded "Dabigatran is associated with an increased risk of MI (myocardial infarction) or ACS (acute coronary syndrome) in a broad spectrum of patients when 

tested against different controls. Clinicians should consider the potential of these serious harmful cardiovascular effects with use of dabigatran."

Dabigatran, a blood-thinner, is used to help prevent strokes or serious blood clots in people who have atrial fibrillation without heart valve disease. Dabigatran is in a 

class of anticoagulant medications called direct thrombin inhibitors. It prevents blood clots from forming in the body.

dabigatran has been linked with a myriad of side effects, according to http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a610024.html

Dabigatran can cause adverse effects. Seek medical attention if any of the following symptoms are severe or do not go away:

stomach pain

heartburn

nausea

Some adverse effects can be serious. If you experience any of following symptoms, you should call your doctor immediately:

unusual bruising or bleeding

pink or brown urine

red or black, tarry stools

coughing up blood

vomiting material that is bloody or looks like ground coffee

bleeding from the gums

frequent nosebleeds

heavy menstrual bleeding

bleeding from a cut that lasts longer than usual

joint pain or swelling

headache

dizziness

weakness

hives

rash

itching

difficulty breathing or swallowing

swelling of the arms, hands, feet, joints, or lower legs

Dabigatran can cause other side effects. Contact your doctor if you have any problems while taking this drug.