According to a new study, Xarelto (rivaroxaban) may be linked to adverse side effects similar to reported problems with Pradaxa. Both medications are anticoagulants, or blood thinning medications, prescribed to prevent blood clotting in patients diagnosed with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. Johnson & Johnson, a major drug manufacturing company, funded the study to be conducted on Xarelto which is manufactured by them. Results of the study were presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference which took place in New Orleans. Pradaxa (dabigatran) was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in October 2010 for the treatment of atrial fibrillation not caused by a heart valve problem. Both Pradaxa and Xarelto are included in a class of drugs referred to as direct thrombin inhibitors which prevent an enzyme that causes blood cells to clot. Atrial fibrillation is a condition which occurs when part of the heart does not beat the way it should. As a result, blood cells tend to clot together and travel through the system, eventually to the brain which could cause stroke and death. Anticoagulants such as Pradaxa are intended to prevent blood clotting by acting as a blood thinning agent. However, adverse side effects have since been reported to the FDA which is now investigating claims including internal bleeding. Common symptoms of internal bleeding include coughing up blood, unexpected bleeding, bruises with unknown causes, blood in vomit, and much more. The FDA received hundreds of complaints about side effects of Pradaxa shortly after the agency approved of its use, according to a report by the Institute of Safe Medication Practices (SMP). Other reported side effects of Pradaxa include heart attack, gastrointestinal bleeding, brain hemorrhaging, and even death. Individuals who have suffered side effects possibly caused by Pradaxa are considering filing Pradaxa lawsuits to recover for their injuries.