Rivaroxban (Xarelto): GOV.UK have iss... - Atrial Fibrillati...

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Rivaroxban (Xarelto): GOV.UK have issued a drug safety update

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MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) has received a small number of reports suggesting lack of efficacy (thromboembolic events) in patients taking 15 mg or 20 mg rivaroxaban on an empty stomach; please remember to take 15 mg or 20 mg rivaroxaban tablets with food.

Read the full item at gov.uk/drug-safety-update/r...

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9 Replies
millie-becca-187 profile image
millie-becca-187

This is interesting I had a mild TIA in 2017 and I've been taking rivaroxoban now for over 4 years, only recently this past year have I taken it with a significant evening meal, but not on medical advice but on the advice I've read on this forum!

Having spoken to my GP about this, he says it doesn't really matter, but from your article it clearly really does matter!

CDreamer profile image
CDreamer in reply tomillie-becca-187

Very, very concerning. I do hope that the AFA is going to highlight for GPs.

I only learned about this after a warning from our arrythmia nurse - then I researched it and found the original studies which clearly stated that it should be taken with a meal which included some fat and protein. I think people taking Rivaroxaban should be asking a lot questions about this as I agree, medical knowledge and advice is either lacking or not clearly communicated. A friend of mine had raised enzymes and only when I suggested she take with her main meal did she query with her GP - who had no knowledge.

in reply toCDreamer

We send a monthly email to medical professionals - it will be included in that. :)

CDreamer profile image
CDreamer in reply to

Thanks Rachel

Nick1957 profile image
Nick1957 in reply tomillie-becca-187

Use to take all my meds at breakfast time- Just started taking rivaroxaban with evening meal. Is this a better time to take rivaroxaban? Comments please!!

millie-becca-187 profile image
millie-becca-187 in reply toNick1957

I have recently changed taking my rivaroxoban from evening to lunchtime.

The reason for this is that I was having restless, sleepless nights, not sleeping more than 3 hours before waking, and having horrible dreams. Having read that taking it late in the day may cause these symptoms I decided to change the time I take it to earlier in the day.

I would prefer to take it at breakfast, but don't eat a fatty enough meal to warrant this.

Having made this simple change, the impact on my sleep has changed dramatically.

I now sleep with minimal disturbance, sleeping 6 hours solid. I cannot believe the difference this has made to my life!

Nick1957 profile image
Nick1957 in reply tomillie-becca-187

Thanks for the info. I was forced to delay taking my rivaroxaban today in the morning because I had a dentist appointment and I thought i may have needed to have a tooth extraction. As it turned out I didn't so I thought nows a good time to change. I'll see how it goes for a day or two b4 making a final decision.

GrannySmithgs5 profile image
GrannySmithgs5

Does this mean I have to eat a " full English " breakfast every day if I take my Rivaroxiban first thing ? Lol !!!!

Deb1838 profile image
Deb1838

Can I ask if rivoroxiban is affected in this way, would I be better asking to switch to another anticoagulant

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