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Overview
Xarelto is a blood thinner. It lowers the risk that the blood will form harmful clots. This medicine is used in some patients to prevent or treat blood clots, depending on their condition.Ibrahim's pharmacy advice
When a patient comes to the pharmacy with Xarelto, I usually make sure of two things: first, that the person understands the medicine should not be stopped suddenly; second, that the person knows the signs of bleeding. I also always remind patients that the 15 mg and 20 mg tablets should be taken with food, because that helps the body absorb the medicine properly. If unusual bleeding or many bruises appear, medical advice should be sought quickly.
What is Xarelto?
- Xarelto is a blood thinner.
- It lowers the risk of forming blood clots.
What is it used for?
- It is used to prevent blood clots in some people with atrial fibrillation.
- It is also used to treat and prevent a blood clot in the leg and a blood clot in the lung as prescribed by the doctor.
How to take the medicine
- Take it exactly as prescribed; the dose depends on why you are taking it.
- Try to take it at the same time every day.
- If you miss a dose, follow your doctor's or pharmacy label instructions; do not take a double dose unless you were specifically told to do so.
Food and drink
- Swallow with water.
- The 15 mg and 20 mg tablets must be taken with food.
- This is important because food improves the absorption of rivaroxaban and helps the medicine work as intended.
- Avoid heavy alcohol use, as this may increase bleeding risk in some people.
Important warnings
- Seek medical help right away for signs of bleeding: blood in urine or stool, black stool, vomiting blood, unusual bruising, or prolonged nosebleeds.
- Always tell your doctor or dentist that you take a blood thinner before procedures.
- Do not stop treatment without medical advice, as this can increase the risk of blood clots.
Side effects
- The main side effect is bleeding.
- Some people may get stomach upset, nausea, or bruise more easily.
- Contact your doctor if bleeding or other symptoms become more pronounced.
Drug interactions
- Some painkillers such as ibuprofen and naproxen, and other blood thinners, can increase bleeding risk.
- Some antibiotics and antifungals can change how this medicine works.
- Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines, herbal products, and other products you use.
Ramadan and fasting
- Talk with your doctor before Ramadan so the doctor can plan how you should best take the medicine during fasting.
- Because the 15 mg and 20 mg tablets need to be taken with food, the dose can often be timed for iftar or another meal, as planned by your doctor.
- Do not change the dose or timing without speaking with your doctor.
Storage
- Keep out of reach of children and in the original package.
- Do not use after the expiry date.
- Return leftovers to the pharmacy.
Sources
This text is written in a personal and simple style, but the medical information is based on official sources.