rivaroxaban
ENGLISH
Synonyms
Approved Treatment Indication:
Pulmonary Embolism, Venous Thrombosis
Summary
What conditions Rivaroxaban is used for
Rivaroxaban is used to treat and prevent blood clots, which are clumps of blood that can block blood vessels. It helps with conditions like deep vein thrombosis, which is a clot in a deep vein, pulmonary embolism, which is a clot in the lungs, and reduces stroke risk in people with atrial fibrillation, which is an irregular heartbeat.
How Rivaroxaban works in the body
Rivaroxaban works by inhibiting Factor Xa, which is a protein involved in the blood clotting process. By blocking this protein, it prevents clots from forming, acting like a switch that stops the clotting process. This makes it effective for preventing and treating blood clots in various conditions.
The usual dosages and routes of administration of Rivaroxaban
Rivaroxaban is usually taken as a tablet once daily with food to help absorption. The starting dose for adults is typically 10 mg, but your doctor may adjust it based on your condition. Swallow the tablet whole without crushing or chewing. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose.
The most commonly observed adverse effects of Rivaroxaban
Common side effects of Rivaroxaban include bleeding, which is the loss of blood from the body, and bruising, which is a discoloration of the skin due to bleeding underneath. Nausea, which is a feeling of sickness with an inclination to vomit, can also occur. These effects vary from person to person.
Important safety warnings and contraindications of Rivaroxaban
Rivaroxaban can increase the risk of bleeding, which can be serious or life-threatening. It's not recommended for people with active bleeding, certain liver conditions, or those at high risk of bleeding. Always inform your doctor about your medical history and other medications to avoid interactions that could increase bleeding risk.
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Factor Xa Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Indications and Purpose
What is Rivaroxaban?
Rivaroxaban is an anticoagulant, which is a type of medication that helps prevent blood clots. It works by inhibiting a specific factor in the blood clotting process. Rivaroxaban is used to treat and prevent conditions like deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and to reduce the risk of stroke in people with atrial fibrillation. It may also be used after certain surgeries to prevent clots.How does Rivaroxaban work?
Rivaroxaban works by inhibiting Factor Xa, which is a protein involved in the blood clotting process. By blocking this protein, Rivaroxaban helps prevent clots from forming. Think of it like turning off a switch that starts the clotting process. This action makes Rivaroxaban effective for preventing and treating blood clots in conditions like atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism.Is Rivaroxaban effective?
Rivaroxaban is effective for preventing and treating blood clots. It works by inhibiting a factor in the blood clotting process, reducing the risk of clots forming. Clinical studies show Rivaroxaban effectively reduces the risk of stroke in people with atrial fibrillation and prevents clots after surgery. It also treats deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Always follow your doctor's instructions for the best results.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Rivaroxaban?
The usual starting dose of Rivaroxaban for adults is 10 mg once daily. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your specific condition and response to treatment. For certain conditions, the dose may be higher or taken more frequently. Elderly patients or those with kidney problems may require dose adjustments. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your health needs.How do I take Rivaroxaban?
Take Rivaroxaban as prescribed by your doctor. It's usually taken once daily with food to help your body absorb it better. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew it. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Never take two doses at once. Avoid alcohol while on this medication.For how long do I take Rivaroxaban?
Rivaroxaban is usually taken long-term for conditions like atrial fibrillation or after surgery to prevent blood clots. The duration depends on your specific condition and how your body responds. Always follow your doctor's instructions on how long to take Rivaroxaban. Stopping without medical advice could increase your risk of blood clots. Talk with your doctor before making any changes to your treatment.How long does it take for Rivaroxaban to start working?
Rivaroxaban starts working quickly, usually within a few hours after taking it. However, the full therapeutic effect, such as preventing blood clots, may take a few days to achieve. How quickly it works can depend on your specific condition and overall health. Always take Rivaroxaban exactly as prescribed for the best results. Regular check-ups with your doctor help ensure the medication is working effectively.How should I store Rivaroxaban?
Store Rivaroxaban at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Don't store it in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture could affect its effectiveness. Always keep Rivaroxaban out of children's reach to prevent accidental swallowing. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.How do I dispose of Rivaroxaban?
Dispose of unused Rivaroxaban by taking it to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw it in the trash at home. First, mix it with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal it in a plastic bag, and throw it away. This helps prevent harm to people and the environment.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Rivaroxaban?
Don't take Rivaroxaban if you have active bleeding or a severe allergy to it. It's not recommended for people with certain liver conditions or those at high risk of bleeding. Use caution if you have kidney problems, as dose adjustments may be needed. Always consult your doctor about your medical history before starting Rivaroxaban to ensure it's safe for you.Can I take Rivaroxaban with other prescription drugs?
Rivaroxaban can interact with several prescription drugs, increasing the risk of bleeding. Notable interactions include:
- Antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin, clopidogrel)
- Other anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin, heparin)
- Antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole)
- HIV medications (e.g., ritonavir)
Can Rivaroxaban be taken safely while pregnant?
Rivaroxaban isn't recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the unborn baby. There's limited information on its safety in pregnant women, but it may cause harm. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about safer alternatives to manage your condition. Your doctor can help create a treatment plan that protects both you and your baby.Can Rivaroxaban be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Rivaroxaban is not recommended while breastfeeding. There's limited information on whether it passes into human breast milk, but it may pose risks to the baby. If you're taking Rivaroxaban and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options. They can help you find a treatment that allows you to nurse your baby safely.Is Rivaroxaban safe for the elderly?
- Lower Doses Recommended: A dose of 10 mg once daily is often better tolerated and may reduce bleeding risks, especially in patients aged 80 and older.
- Increased Bleeding Risk: Elderly patients are at a higher risk for bleeding due to age-related factors such as renal impairment and increased coagulation factors.
- No Official Dose Adjustment: Current guidelines do not recommend specific dose adjustments for the elderly, but careful monitoring is essential.
- Individualized Therapy: Due to variability in tolerance and comorbidities, individualized dosing and regular reassessment of bleeding risks are crucial.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Rivaroxaban?
You can exercise while taking Rivaroxaban, but be cautious. This medication increases the risk of bleeding, so avoid activities with a high risk of injury. If you notice unusual bruising or bleeding during exercise, stop and rest. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Most people can maintain their regular exercise routine, but check with your doctor if you have concerns.Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Rivaroxaban?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Rivaroxaban. Alcohol can increase the risk of bleeding, which is a serious side effect of this medication. If you do choose to drink occasionally, limit how much alcohol you consume and watch for signs of bleeding, like unusual bruising or bleeding gums. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking Rivaroxaban for personalized advice.What are the most common side effects of Rivaroxaban?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of Rivaroxaban include bleeding, bruising, and nausea. These effects vary from person to person. If you notice new symptoms after starting Rivaroxaban, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.Does Rivaroxaban have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. With Rivaroxaban, common adverse effects include bleeding and bruising. Serious side effects can include severe bleeding, which requires immediate medical attention. If you notice any unusual symptoms or side effects, contact your doctor. They can help determine if these are related to Rivaroxaban and advise on the best course of action.Is Rivaroxaban addictive?
Rivaroxaban is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Rivaroxaban works by affecting blood clotting, not brain chemistry, so it doesn't lead to addiction. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to take more than prescribed. If you have concerns about medication dependence, Rivaroxaban doesn't carry this risk.Does Rivaroxaban have any safety warnings?
Yes, Rivaroxaban has important safety warnings. It can increase the risk of bleeding, which can be serious or even life-threatening. This risk is higher if you have certain medical conditions or take other medications that affect bleeding. If you experience unusual bleeding or bruising, seek medical help immediately. Always inform your doctor about any other medications you take to avoid interactions that could increase bleeding risk.Is it safe to stop Rivaroxaban?
Stopping Rivaroxaban suddenly can increase your risk of blood clots, which can be dangerous. If you're taking it for conditions like atrial fibrillation or after surgery, stopping could lead to serious complications. Always talk with your doctor before stopping Rivaroxaban. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control.