Xarelto (rivaroxaban) is a popular anticoagulant drug on the market right now. Unfortunately, it also has dangerous and severe life-threatening side effects. The blood-thinning drug, which was basically fast-tracked through the FDA approval process, and developed by Bayer, Johnson & Johnson and Janssen Pharmaceuticals, carries a risk of hemorrhaging and fatal bleeding events.
Blood Thinning Drugs Not One-Size-Fits-All
Unlike some other blood thinners and older, more well-established and well-researched drugs, Xarelto is given to patients as one uniform dose. The doctor doesn’t prescribe different dosages to different individuals. Sadly, with other dangerous drugs like Pradaxa on the market, it looks as though blood thinners are just not very safe when marketed as a one-size-fits-all drug.
Post-Surgical Prescription
Xarelto is typically given to patients following knee or hip replacement surgery. It’s prescribed to reduce the risk of blood clots and stroke in certain patients. Unfortunately, one of the most dangerous side effects of the drug is uncontrolled bleeding. Since the ability to clot is prevented, patients can actually bleed to death, and there’s no quick reversal agent for the drug.
Xarelto Side Effects and Warning Signs
The most dangerous side effect associated with Xarelto is a fatal bleeding event. It’s also possible to have fainting, itching, muscle spasms and allergic reactions to the blood-thinning drug. Additionally, patiets can have pools of blood to form within the body, which is also very dangerous. Listed below are a few warning signs to look out for.
Call Your Doctor Immediately if
- You have unusual bleeding or bruising.
- You have red or pink urine.
- You have black or bloody stools.
- You are coughing up blood or anything that looks like coffee grounds.
- You have numbness or tingling in any part of your body.
- You have heavy menstrual periods.
- You have headaches, dizziness or weakness.
Patients Weren’t Properly Warned of Risks
Of course, very few drugs are totally without risk, but one of the problems with Xarelto and similarly dangerous blood-thinning drugs is the lack of proper warning given to patients. Patients have to be adequately warned of the risks involved with taking drugs, especially if they run the risk of having a fatal bleeding event. If you or a loved one has suffered from the dangerous side effects of Xarelto or similar drugs, contact a skilled personal injury attorney as soon as possible.