VAXATO 20MG
RIVAROBAXAN
What it does
Rivaroxaban is a medication that helps prevent blood clots by inhibiting a specific protein in the blood.
Commonly used for: prevention of blood clots in patients after surgery, treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), treatment of pulmonary embolism (PE), prevention of stroke in people with atrial fibrillation
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 20:04:54 · updated 2026-08-03 04:05:14
About this medicine
Rivaroxaban is a medication that helps prevent blood clots by inhibiting a specific protein in the blood.
What it treats
- prevention of blood clots in patients after surgery
- treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- treatment of pulmonary embolism (PE)
- prevention of stroke in people with atrial fibrillation
How it works
It works by blocking a protein that helps blood to clot, reducing the chance of dangerous clots forming.
Who it's for
It is for adults at risk of blood clots due to surgery, certain medical conditions, or irregular heartbeats.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: rivarobaxan
Rivaroxaban is an oral anticoagulant that belongs to the class of direct factor Xa inhibitors. It is used primarily for the prevention and treatment of thromboembolic disorders. Rivaroxaban works by inhibiting factor Xa, an essential component in the coagulation cascade, thereby preventing the formation of thrombin and fibrin, which are crucial for blood clotting.
Indications
- Prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients undergoing hip or knee replacement surgery
- Treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE)
- Prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation
- Reduction of the risk of recurrence of DVT and PE
Dosage
Children: Refer to BNF for Children for appropriate dosing
Adults: Refer to specific clinical guidelines and BNF for appropriate dosing
Mechanism of action
Rivaroxaban selectively inhibits factor Xa, reducing thrombin generation and consequent thrombus formation. It binds directly to the active site of factor Xa, preventing its action in the coagulation cascade, leading to an anticoagulant effect.
Pharmacodynamics
Rivaroxaban exhibits a rapid onset of action with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 2 to 4 hours after oral administration. Its anticoagulant effect is dose-dependent, with prolonged prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time observed as the doses increase. It does not require routine monitoring of coagulation parameters, unlike traditional anticoagulants.
Pharmacokinetics
Rivaroxaban has a bioavailability of approximately 66% to 100% when taken with food. It is primarily metabolized in the liver through CYP3A4 and is excreted via urine and feces. The half-life ranges from 5 to 13 hours, allowing for once-daily or twice-daily dosing regimens. Renal function significantly affects its pharmacokinetics, necessitating dose adjustments in patients with renal impairment.
Contra-indications
- Active major bleeding
- Severe renal impairment (CrCl < 15 mL/min)
- Hypersensitivity to rivaroxaban or any excipients
- Liver disease associated with coagulopathy
Adverse effects
- Bleeding complications (including gastrointestinal, intracranial, and other sites)
- Anemia
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Nausea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Rash
Interactions
- Strong dual inhibitors of CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir) may increase rivaroxaban plasma concentrations
- Strong inducers of CYP3A4 (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin) may decrease rivaroxaban plasma concentrations
- Anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, and NSAIDs may increase the risk of bleeding
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with renal impairment
- Monitor for signs of bleeding
- Consider discontinuation prior to surgical procedures
- Assess for potential drug interactions
Pregnancy
Rivaroxaban is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus and the lack of adequate studies.
Breast-feeding
It is not known if rivaroxaban is excreted in human milk. Caution is advised when administering to breastfeeding women.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets (10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg)
- Oral suspension
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.