Xarelto 20mg Rivaroxaban x14 Tabs

Xarelto 20mg, containing the active ingredient Rivaroxaban, is a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) designed to prevent and treat blood clots. It functions by inhibiting factor Xa, a crucial protein in the blood clotting process. Xarelto offers a modern alternative to traditional anticoagulants, providing effective blood clot management with fewer monitoring requirements.

Uses

Xarelto 20mg treats and prevents blood clots including deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. It also prevents blood clots after hip or knee replacement surgery and benefits patients at high risk due to recent heart attacks, strokes, certain cancers, or history of blood clots.

Benefits

• Effective in preventing and treating various types of blood clots
• Once or twice daily oral dosing for convenient administration
• No regular blood tests required for monitoring, unlike warfarin
• Fewer drug and food interactions compared to traditional anticoagulants
• Rapid onset of action
• Shown to be as effective as warfarin with fewer side effects
• Reduces the risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation

How It Works

Xarelto works by directly inhibiting factor Xa, a key enzyme in the blood coagulation cascade. By blocking this factor, Xarelto prevents the formation of thrombin and subsequently inhibits blood clot formation. This targeted action allows for predictable anticoagulation effects without the need for frequent monitoring.

Duration of Action

Xarelto reaches peak effectiveness within 2-4 hours after administration. Its anticoagulant effects last approximately 24 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing in most indications. The half-life ranges from 5-9 hours in younger adults to 11-13 hours in elderly patients.

Dosage

Warnings

Xarelto is a high-alert medication that may increase the risk of bleeding, which can be serious or life-threatening. Seek immediate medical attention for signs of bleeding such as unusual bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts, or blood in urine or stool. Do not use in patients with active bleeding or severe liver disease.

Side Effects

Common side effects include bleeding gums, nosebleeds, heavier than normal menstrual bleeding, and easy bruising. More serious side effects include internal bleeding, spinal/epidural blood clots when used with spinal procedures, and allergic reactions. Notify your doctor immediately if experiencing severe headache, dizziness, weakness, or signs of bleeding.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Xarelto is not recommended during pregnancy as it may cause birth defects or bleeding in the developing baby. It should not be used by breastfeeding mothers as it may pass into breast milk and harm the nursing infant. Discuss alternative anticoagulation options with your healthcare provider if pregnant or planning pregnancy.

Interactions

• Aspirin and NSAIDs (increased bleeding risk)
• Other anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs (significantly higher bleeding risk)
• Strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitors (increased rivaroxaban levels)
• Strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inducers (decreased effectiveness)
• Certain antifungals and HIV medications (altered drug levels)
• St. John’s Wort (reduced effectiveness)

Precautions

Take Xarelto exactly as prescribed. Do not stop taking without consulting your doctor as this increases risk of blood clots. Take 15mg and 20mg doses with food to enhance absorption. Inform all healthcare providers about Xarelto use before any surgical or dental procedures. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Important Information

Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor treatment effectiveness and safety. Carry identification indicating you take an anticoagulant. Missing doses can significantly increase risk of clots. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered on the same day, then continue the regular schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.