Xarelto (brand name for rivaroxaban) is an anticoagulant, not an antiplatelet medication. Anticoagulants work by interfering with the body’s clotting process, while antiplatelet drugs prevent blood cells called platelets from sticking together.

Xarelto is used to reduce the blood’s ability to form harmful clots, which helps lower the risk of stroke, DVT, and PE. Anticoagulants like rivaroxaban are part of maintaining overall heart health for people at risk of clot-related events. In some cases, such as certain heart conditions like peripheral artery disease, a provider may prescribe Xarelto alongside low-dose aspirin.

No, Xarelto and Eliquis (brand name for apixaban) are not the same, though they both belong to a class of medications called direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). Each is used to prevent and treat blood clots, but they differ in how they are taken and in certain safety considerations.

Eliquis may be preferred for people with kidney issues, while Xarelto may be easier for those who want a once-daily dosing schedule. Other DOACs, like dabigatran (generic Pradaxa), are also available for specific situations where a new medication might be needed.

Your healthcare provider will help determine which medication is the best fit based on your health history, other medications, and lifestyle.

Some medications can increase the risk of bleeding or reduce how well rivaroxaban works. These include other blood thinners, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, certain antidepressants, and some heart medications such as diltiazem. Other drugs, including antifungals, antivirals, anti-seizure medications, herbal supplements, and tranexamic acid, can also interact with rivaroxaban.

Rivaroxaban (generic Xarelto) can often be used alongside other medications for heart conditions, including beta blockers like nadolol or carvedilol, under your provider’s guidance.

Always tell your provider about all prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements you take before starting rivaroxaban or making any changes.

Rivaroxaban (generic Xarelto) may not be appropriate for people with certain medical conditions, including active bleeding, bleeding disorders, or severe kidney or liver disease. It may also be unsafe for individuals with artificial heart valves or conditions that significantly increase bleeding risk, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.

Rivaroxaban may not be appropriate for people with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), particularly those who test positive for multiple APS antibodies. Other anticoagulants, such as warfarin, may be safer and more effective.

People who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding should discuss the risks and benefits with their provider before starting treatment. Your prescriber will review your medical history to determine whether rivaroxaban is a safe option for you.

The lowest dose of rivaroxaban (generic Xarelto) varies depending on the condition being treated and your individual health factors. Some patients may be prescribed lower doses for specific uses, such as long-term clot prevention or certain heart conditions. Your provider will choose the appropriate dose based on your age, kidney function, bleeding risk, and treatment goals.

Never adjust your dose or stop taking Xarelto without consulting your prescriber, as doing so can increase the risk of dangerous blood clots.

What to do if you miss a dose depends on your prescribed dose and schedule. In some cases, you may be instructed to take the missed dose as soon as you remember, while in others, you may need to wait until your next scheduled dose.

Do not take extra doses to make up for a missed one unless your provider specifically tells you to do so. If you’re unsure what to do, contact your prescriber or pharmacist for guidance about your rivaroxaban prescription.

Taking too much rivaroxaban (generic Xarelto) can increase your risk of serious bleeding. Symptoms of overdose may include prolonged bleeding, severe bruising, blood in your urine or stool, or vomiting blood.

If you think you have taken more rivaroxaban than prescribed, seek medical help right away or contact poison control. Always take rivaroxaban exactly as directed by your provider to reduce the risk of complications.

Rivaroxaban (generic Xarelto) is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider. Your provider may order lab tests before prescribing rivaroxaban. Find a Quest Diagnostics location near you to get tested.

Once approved, providers on Sesame can write a prescription or refill an existing one during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a real, licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not rivaroxaban is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.