From the Guidelines
The half-life of Xarelto (rivaroxaban) is approximately 5 to 9 hours in healthy adults with normal kidney function, and it extends to 11 to 13 hours in elderly patients. This information is based on the most recent and highest quality study available, which provides detailed pharmacokinetic data on rivaroxaban 1. The half-life of a drug is a critical factor in determining its dosing frequency and potential for drug interactions. In the case of Xarelto, its relatively short half-life means that it needs to be taken regularly to maintain its anticoagulant effect.
Key Points to Consider
- The half-life of Xarelto can be longer in patients with reduced kidney function, as the drug is partially eliminated through the kidneys 1.
- Xarelto reaches peak concentration in the bloodstream about 2 to 4 hours after taking it, and it's typically dosed once or twice daily depending on the condition being treated 1.
- The relatively short half-life of Xarelto compared to some other anticoagulants means that missing doses can quickly reduce its anticoagulant effect, so consistent timing of doses is important.
- However, this shorter half-life can also be beneficial if the medication needs to be stopped before surgery or in case of bleeding complications, as the drug clears from the system relatively quickly compared to traditional anticoagulants like warfarin.
Clinical Implications
- Patients taking Xarelto should be aware of the importance of consistent dosing to maintain its anticoagulant effect.
- Healthcare providers should consider the potential for longer half-life in patients with reduced kidney function when prescribing Xarelto.
- The shorter half-life of Xarelto can be beneficial in certain clinical situations, such as before surgery or in case of bleeding complications.
From the FDA Drug Label
The terminal elimination half-life of rivaroxaban is 5 to 9 hours in healthy subjects aged 20 to 45 years. The half-life of Xarelto (rivaroxaban) is 5 to 9 hours in healthy subjects aged 20 to 45 years 2.
From the Research
Half Life of Xarelto
- The half life of Xarelto (Rivaroxaban) is between 7 to 11 hours 3
- Xarelto has a dual mode of elimination, which includes hepatic and renal elimination 4
- The pharmacokinetics of Xarelto are predictable, allowing for a fixed dose to be administered without routine coagulation testing 4, 5
- Xarelto reaches maximal plasma concentration 2-4 hours after administration and has a high bioavailability of 80-100% 3, 5
- The terminal half-life of elimination of Xarelto is affected by renal and liver function, as well as potential interactions with strong inhibitors or inducers of the CYP450 3A4 enzyme 3