Rivaroxaban: The Anticoagulant for Stroke and Clot Prevention
What is Rivaroxaban?
Rivaroxaban is an oral anticoagulant used to reduce the risk of stroke, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and other clot-related conditions. It works by inhibiting Factor Xa, an essential enzyme in the blood clotting process.
How Rivaroxaban Works
Rivaroxaban directly inhibits Factor Xa selectively and reversibly in both extrinsic and the intrinsic pathways of coagulation, thereby inhibiting platelet activation and fibrin clot formation. Hence the risk of stroke and clotting disorders is greatly reduced.
When to Use Rivaroxaban
● Prevention of Stroke: Rivaroxaban is prescribed for patients with atrial fibrillation to prevent stroke and thromboembolism.
● Treatment and Prevention of DVT and PE: It is used for treating deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) and preventing recurrence.
●Post- surgical Prevention: Rivaroxaban is used after surgeries like hip replacement or knee replacement to prevent blood clots.
Dosage
● Adult Dose for Stroke Prevention: Typically, 20 mg once daily for non-valvular atrial fibrillation.
● Adult Dose for DVT/PE Treatment: 15 mg twice daily for the first 21 days, followed by 20 mg once daily.
Side Effects
● Common Effects: Bleeding, bruising, headache, and dizziness.
● Serious Adverse Effects: Severe bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, and liver problems.