Xarelto
Rivaroxaban* Only 2.5mg dosage strength is dispensed from Canada.
** The generic alternative is not dispensed and shipped from Canada.
Indications
- Rivaroxaban is used to prevent blood clots in individuals with atrial fibrillation or after hip or knee replacement surgery.
- It is also used to prevent blood clots in high-risk patients with limited mobility during and after their hospital stay.
- Rivaroxaban can treat blood clots in conditions like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
- In children, it may be used to prevent blood clots after certain heart surgeries.
- Rivaroxaban is an anticoagulant that blocks certain clotting proteins in the blood.
Dosage and administration
- Read the Medication Guide before starting rivaroxaban and each time you refill.
- Take the medication by mouth as directed by your doctor.
- Different dosing instructions depending on the reason for taking the medication.
- Follow your doctor’s directions and do not change the dose without instruction.
- Take the 10 mg tablet with or without food, take the 15 mg and 20 mg tablets with food.
- Crushed tablets can be mixed with applesauce and should be consumed immediately.
- Specific instructions for administering the medication through a tube.
- Dosage and length of treatment depend on medical condition and response.
- Take the medication regularly at the same time each day for maximum benefit.
Side effects
- Easy bruising or minor bleeding (e.g., nosebleeds) may occur as side effects.
- Inform the doctor or pharmacist if these effects persist or worsen.
- Medication prescribed due to a judgment that benefits outweigh risks for the individual.
- Many users do not experience serious side effects.
- Serious bleeding may result from excessive impact on blood clotting proteins.
- Report signs of serious bleeding to the doctor, such as frequent or unstoppable nosebleeds, unusual tiredness, prolonged bleeding from cuts, etc.
- Seek immediate medical help for very serious bleeding signs, including vision changes, confusion, weakness on one side of the body.
- Rare but possible serious allergic reactions may occur; seek immediate medical help for symptoms like rash, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
- Not an exhaustive list of side effects; contact the doctor or pharmacist for unlisted effects.
Precautions
- Before taking rivaroxaban, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies or are allergic to the medication.
- The medication may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist of your medical history, especially if you have cancer, liver or kidney disease, bleeding problems, stroke, artificial heart valves, recent major injury/surgery, blood disorders, frequent falls/injuries, certain eye problems, or certain enzyme problems.
- Before undergoing surgery or medical/dental procedures, inform your doctor or dentist about taking this medication and any other products you use.
- This medication may cause stomach bleeding, and daily alcohol use can increase the risk. Limit alcoholic beverages.
- Use caution with sharp objects and avoid activities that may cause injury while taking this medication.
- Older adults may experience increased sensitivity to the side effects of this drug, especially bleeding.
- Discuss the risks and benefits of using this medication during pregnancy with your doctor.
- Consult your doctor before breastfeeding as the medication may pass into breast milk.
