Varoxa 20mg (Rivaroxaban)
- After at least 6 months of standard anticoagulant therapy, 20mg once daily is used for ongoing secondary prevention.
General Instructions:
- Always take the 20mg tablet WITH food — this is critical for this strength. Food increases absorption by up to 39% compared to the fasted state, ensuring therapeutic blood levels are reached and maintained.
- Take at the same time each day — consistency is key to maintaining steady anticoagulant protection.
- Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
- If you have a heart problem like atrial fibrillation or have had a heart attack, you might need to take Rivaroxaban long term or even for the rest of your life. Do not stop taking Rivaroxaban without talking to your doctor.
- Never stop Rivaroxaban suddenly — premature discontinuation of any oral anticoagulant, including Rivaroxaban, increases the risk of thrombotic events. Always consult your doctor before stopping or adjusting your dose.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember the same day. If it is close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue as normal — never double dose.
Common Side Effects
The most clinically significant side effect of Rivaroxaban — as with all anticoagulants — is bleeding. Rivaroxaban can cause you to bleed more easily, even from a minor injury.
Signs of bleeding that require prompt medical attention: Call your doctor if you have signs of bleeding such as bruising or bleeding that will not stop (nosebleeds, bleeding gums, heavy menstrual bleeding); pain, swelling, new drainage, or excessive bleeding from a wound; headaches, dizziness, weakness, feeling like you might pass out.
Other reported side effects include:
- Nausea or mild stomach discomfort — taking the tablet with food significantly reduces this
- Mild dizziness or lightheadedness
- Skin rash or itching — rarely
Important Warnings & Contraindications
Pregnancy: Taking Rivaroxaban during pregnancy may cause bleeding in the mother or the unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Breastfeeding: It may not be safe to breastfeed a baby while you are using Rivaroxaban. Ask your doctor about the risks.
Prosthetic Heart Valves: Rivaroxaban is not recommended for patients with prosthetic heart valves or rheumatic heart disease, and should be avoided in patients with mechanical valves or moderate-to-severe mitral stenosis.
Active Bleeding: Active pathological bleeding is an absolute contraindication for Rivaroxaban use.
Liver Disease: Significant liver impairment associated with coagulopathy contraindicates Rivaroxaban use.
Alcohol: This medication may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol while using this medicine will increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Limit alcoholic beverages.
Prescription Required
Rivaroxaban 20mg is a prescription-only medicine. Please upload a valid prescription or consult your doctor before purchasing. Our licensed pharmacists are available to answer any questions about your anticoagulation treatment and to ensure your medicine is dispensed safely.