Understanding the Xarelto Prescribing Information: A Comprehensive Guide
If you have been prescribed Xarelto, it is crucial to understand everything about the medication and its impact on your health. Xarelto belongs to the family of anticoagulants, which are blood-thinning medications. This drug is primarily used to reduce the risk of stroke and blood clots, especially in people with atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), or who have undergone knee or hip replacement surgeries.
To get a better understanding of Xarelto, let’s dive into the prescribing information of this medication and some important facts you should know.
Composition and Dosage
The active ingredient in Xarelto is Rivaroxaban, which works by blocking factor Xa, an important component in the blood clotting process. The recommended daily dosage of Xarelto varies and depends on the medical condition it is treating. For example, the recommended dosage for DVT and PE treatment is 15 mg twice daily for three weeks, followed by 20 mg once daily. For patients with atrial fibrillation, the recommended daily dosage is 20 mg once daily with the evening meal.
Precautions
It’s essential to follow the proper precautions while taking Xarelto, especially if you have experienced bleeding disorders or have an increased risk of bleeding. Since Xarelto is a blood-thinning medication, it can cause excessive bleeding, including internal and external hemorrhages. Be cautious when taking other blood-thinning medicines or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that may increase your risk of bleeding.
It’s essential to inform your doctor if you have a liver or kidney disease, as Xarelto may affect these organs. Additionally, if you have a history of allergic reactions, liver disease, and spinal surgery, you should inform your doctor.
Side Effects
Like any other medications, Xarelto may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Xarelto include nausea, fatigue, low blood pressure, bleeding, and dizziness. Most Xarelto-related side effects are temporary, and usually, your body will adjust the drug’s effects after a few weeks of taking it.
How to Take Xarelto
Xarelto should be taken once or twice daily, depending on what your doctor prescribed. It can be taken with or without food, and swallowing the whole tablet is recommended. However, if you experience any difficulty swallowing the tablet, you can also crush it and mix the granules with food or liquid.
Conclusion
Xarelto is an effective blood-thinning medication that can prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of stroke and PE. However, understanding its prescribing information is crucial to prevent any adverse effects that may occur. If you experience any side effects or have any concerns about taking Xarelto, it’s essential to discuss it with your doctor as soon as possible.
Remember, never change your dosage or stop taking Xarelto without consulting your doctor first. With the right precautions and proper use, Xarelto can be a life-saving medication for many people.
