Xarelto
The US Food and Drug Administration has approved Xarelto (rivaroxaban) to reduce stroke risk in those with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (afib unrelated to heart valve problems). Xarelto is now the second oral alternative to warfarin (Coumadin) and offers an option for those unable to take warfarin or dabigatran.
Xarelto is the first once-a-day alternative to warfarin and does not require the regular blood testing that warfarin does. Learn more about the approval of Xarelto at:
Xarelto Approved by the FDA for Atrial Fibrillation Stroke Prevention
In my early 60’s was diagnosed as having episodes of atrial fib associated with aortic stenosis secondary to a congenital bicuspid valve. In 2005 underwent a tissue valve replacement and a modified Maze procedure to treat the atrial fib.
To date, I have excellent cardiac function, but do have short runs of probable atrial fib lasting a few minutes a couple times per year. My cardiologist has elected to maintain me on warfarin for this reason.
Since the aortic valve has been repaired and is no longer an issue, is current medical practice to still not allow a patient to switch to dabigatran or rivaroxaban?
Lou,
Since both dabigatran and rivaroxaban are only approved for non-valvular afib, you’d have to discuss that with your doctor.
Mellanie