Rivaroxaban is an anticoagulant medication used to prevent blood clots from forming. It is sold under the brand name Xarelto and is available in tablet form.
Rivaroxaban works by inhibiting a clotting factor called factor Xa, which is involved in the blood clotting process. By blocking this factor, rivaroxaban reduces the risk of blood clots forming, which can be potentially life-threatening if they travel to the lungs or brain.
Rivaroxaban is primarily used to prevent blood clots in people with certain medical conditions, such as atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and pulmonary embolism (PE). It may also be used to prevent blood clots in people who have had hip or knee replacement surgery.
Like all medications, rivaroxaban may cause side effects. The most common side effect is bleeding, which may occur in different parts of the body, including the gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, and skin. Other possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, and itching.
It is important to take rivaroxaban exactly as prescribed by a doctor. This medication should not be stopped abruptly without consulting a doctor, as doing so may increase the risk of blood clots. In addition, people taking rivaroxaban should avoid activities that may increase the risk of bleeding, such as contact sports or heavy lifting.
Rivaroxaban may interact with other medications, so it is important to inform the prescribing doctor of all medications being taken. It is also important to inform the doctor of any medical conditions, especially those that may increase the risk of bleeding, such as kidney or liver disease.