Ask the doctor: Is the alternative to warfarin safe and effective?
Q. My wife's medication to treat atrial fibrillation recently was changed from warfarin to a new drug called Pradaxa. They say that the new medicine does not require regular INR tests and is just as effective. Is that so?
A. Yes, it is so. Before I explain why, let me provide a little background.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise