What it is used for
- Reducing stroke risk in atrial fibrillation
- Treating and preventing blood clots in the legs or lungs
- Preventing clots after hip or knee replacement surgery
- Reducing risk in some people with heart or artery disease
How it works
Rivaroxaban blocks a specific clotting protein in the blood (factor Xa), which reduces the blood's ability to form clots. Unlike warfarin, it usually does not need routine blood-test monitoring.
How it is taken
Taken by mouth as a tablet, with the larger doses usually taken with food to help absorption. It may be taken once or twice a day depending on what it is treating. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and follow the label; do not stop without medical advice, as this can raise the risk of a clot.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Easier bruising
- Nosebleeds or bleeding gums
- Longer bleeding from minor cuts
- Heavier menstrual bleeding
- Stomach upset
Serious effects — get help
- Heavy or uncontrolled bleeding
- Black or bloody stools, or vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
- Coughing up blood, blood in the urine, or sudden severe headache
- Signs of a clot despite treatment, such as leg swelling or sudden breathlessness
- Signs of a serious allergic reaction
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Other blood thinners and antiplatelets such as aspirin, clopidogrel, and warfarin
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen
- Certain antifungal and HIV medicines (can raise levels)
- Some seizure medicines and rifampicin (can lower levels)
- St John's wort
Who should take care
- Do not use in pregnancy or breastfeeding unless specifically directed; discuss with your doctor
- Tell your clinician about kidney or liver problems
- Tell every clinician, dentist, and surgeon that you take it before procedures
- Do not stop suddenly without medical advice
- Check with a pharmacist before any new medicine or supplement