A study by the University of North Carolina found that Pradaxa may increase the risk of some viral infections, such as flu and myocarditis, and infection of the heart.  The study also affirms that the blood thinner blocks key components of the human blood clotting system.

Pradaxa works by inhibiting thrombin, the body’s central coagulation activator of the blood clotting system.  By blocking the thrombin activity, the drug disturbs the “protease cascade of molecular events that normally occurs during coagulation.”  The new study shows that, although clot formation is reduced, an unintended consequence may emerge. The study reported that “blocking thrombin reduces the innate immune response to viral infection.”  This research will be published in the March 2013 issue of the Journal of Clinical Investigation.

The devastating consequences of Pradaxa use will likely continue. If you or a loved one has experienced serious side effects after taking Pradaxa, you can contact Stark & Stark and speak to one of the Mass Tort attorneys, free of charge, who can help assess any claims that you might have against Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc.