Overview Of Anticoagulants

Rivaroxaban

Patients with peripheral artery disease or coronary artery disease may be advised to take rivaroxaban. This medication reduces the likelihood of having a stroke or heart attack. In these situations, patients will take this medication with acetylsalicylic acid. Rivaroxaban is available as a tablet. Patients with certain conditions may need to take their tablets with food. Before using this drug, patients should tell their doctor if they have ever had liver or kidney disease. Their doctor will also ask if they have an artificial heart valve. Like other blood thinners, rivaroxaban can cause easy bleeding. This is especially common in individuals who have bleeding disorders, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or stomach bleeding. Easy bleeding is more likely to occur in patients who use this medication with some other anticoagulants, antiplatelets, or antidepressants.

During treatment with this medication, patients may develop heavy menstrual periods. They may also experience nosebleeds, bleeding gums, and blood in their urine or stool. Rarely, a spinal blood clot may form. However, this requires emergency hospitalization. In addition, patients need emergency care if they suddenly lose control of their bladder or bowels or if they notice a sensation of numbness in their lower body. These issues could be signs that a dangerous blood clot has formed in the spine.