Xarelto 10mg contains Rivaroxaban, a direct factor Xa inhibitor anticoagulant, also known as a blood thinner.. This prescription blood thinner prevents and treats dangerous blood clots while reducing stroke risk in certain patients.
Uses
Xarelto 10mg is prescribed to prevent blood clots after hip or knee replacement surgery. It treats deep vein thrombosis (leg clots) and pulmonary embolism (lung clots). The medication prevents clot recurrence and reduces stroke risk in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Benefits
- Prevents post-surgical blood clots in the legs and lungs
- Effectively treats existing deep vein thrombosis
- Manages pulmonary embolism and prevents recurrence
- Reduces stroke risk in atrial fibrillation patients
- Requires no routine blood monitoring unlike warfarin
- Offers convenient once-daily dosing
- Can be taken with or without food
- Provides predictable anticoagulation
- Fewer food and drug interactions than older anticoagulants
How It Works
Rivaroxaban selectively blocks Factor Xa, a critical enzyme in the blood clotting process. By inhibiting this factor, Xarelto prevents thrombin formation and subsequent clot development. This mechanism helps maintain normal blood flow and reduces dangerous clotting without affecting existing beneficial clots that stop bleeding.
Dosage
Indication |
Standard Dosage |
Duration |
Post-surgery prevention |
10mg once daily |
2-5 weeks |
DVT/PE treatment |
15mg twice daily for 21 days, then 20mg once daily |
3-6+ months |
Atrial fibrillation |
20mg once daily |
Long-term |
Take Xarelto 10mg tablet once daily with or without food. Swallow whole with water.
Duration of Action
Xarelto begins working within 2-4 hours after ingestion. Maximum blood-thinning effect occurs 2-4 hours after taking the medication. The anticoagulant effect typically lasts for 24 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing. After discontinuation, normal clotting function usually returns within 24-48 hours.
Side Effects
The most common side effect is increased risk of bleeding, which may include nosebleeds, bleeding gums, bruising easily, or heavier menstrual periods. Some patients experience headache, dizziness, or digestive issues like nausea. Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention include severe bleeding, bloody urine/stool, or signs of spinal/epidural blood clots.
Warning
Do not stop taking Xarelto without consulting your doctor as this increases stroke risk. Patients undergoing spinal procedures face increased risk of spinal/epidural hematoma. There is no specific reversal agent widely available for emergency situations. Avoid activities with high injury risk. Seek immediate medical attention for unusual bleeding or signs of bleeding in stool, urine, or when coughing.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Xarelto is not recommended during pregnancy as it may cause fetal harm. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception while taking this medication. Rivaroxaban passes into breast milk and may affect nursing infants. Alternative anticoagulants are typically recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Interaction
- Increased bleeding risk with other anticoagulants, antiplatelets, or NSAIDs
- Reduced effectiveness with certain antiepileptics (carbamazepine, phenytoin)
- Potential interaction with antifungals like ketoconazole
- May interact with HIV protease inhibitors
- St. John’s Wort may decrease Xarelto effectiveness
- Certain antibiotics may increase bleeding risk
Precaution
Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver impairment. Avoid use in patients with artificial heart valves. Increased bleeding risk in elderly patients. Discontinue at least 24 hours before invasive procedures. Always wear medical identification indicating you take a blood thinner. Report any unusual bleeding to your doctor immediately.
Important Information
Xarelto 10mg is a prescription medication requiring regular medical supervision. Never skip doses or take double doses. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember on the same day. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Inform all healthcare providers including dentists about Xarelto use before procedures.
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