Understanding Xarelto Prescribing Information: What You Need to Know

Xarelto (rivaroxaban) is a popular prescription medication used to prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of stroke in patients who have a medical condition known as atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis, or pulmonary embolism. Understanding Xarelto prescribing information is crucial to ensure safe and effective treatment for patients. In this article, we will explore what you need to know about Xarelto, including its uses, dosing, side effects, and interactions.

Uses of Xarelto

Xarelto is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients undergoing knee or hip replacement surgery. It is also approved for reducing the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) and to treat DVT and PE. Xarelto works by inhibiting the activity of factor Xa, a protein responsible for blood clotting, thereby preventing the formation of blood clots.

Dosing Information

Xarelto is available in tablet form and is taken orally. The recommended dose for stroke prevention in NVAF is 20 mg once daily with the evening meal. The recommended dose for treatment of DVT or PE is 15 mg twice daily for the first 21 days, followed by 20 mg once daily thereafter. For patients undergoing knee or hip replacement surgery, the recommended dose is 10 mg once daily for 12 days or 35 days, respectively.

It’s essential to follow the prescribed Xarelto dosing instructions as instructed by your healthcare professional to avoid any adverse drug events. It’s also important to report any significant medical history or current medications you are taking to your healthcare provider as they may affect the dosing regimen of Xarelto.

Side Effects of Xarelto

Like all medications, Xarelto has the potential to cause side effects. Common side effects of Xarelto include bleeding, bruising, nasal congestion, headache, and dizziness. Patients taking Xarelto are advised to monitor for any signs of excessive bleeding and seek medical attention immediately if these symptoms occur. Patients who are allergic to rivaroxaban or have a history of bleeding disorders should not take Xarelto.

Interactions with Other Drugs

Xarelto has known interactions with several medications, including antiplatelet drugs, antithrombotic agents, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and SSRI antidepressants. Xarelto should not be taken with aspirin or other antiplatelet drugs, as this increases the risk of bleeding. Before taking Xarelto, ensure your healthcare professional is aware of all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, herbal supplements, and vitamins.

Conclusion

Xarelto is a widely used medication for reducing the risk of stroke and blood clots, but it’s essential to understand Xarelto prescribing information before taking the drug. Patients need to follow the dosing instructions provided by their healthcare professional closely, monitor for any signs of side effects, and report any significant medical history or current medications to avoid potential adverse drug events. By taking these precautions and following the instructions, Xarelto can be an effective treatment option for patients at risk for blood clots and stroke.