From the Research
It is generally not safe to get a tattoo while taking Xarelto (rivaroxaban) due to the increased risk of bleeding and potential complications. Xarelto is a blood thinner that prevents blood clots by inhibiting a clotting factor, which means you'll bleed more easily and for longer periods. Getting a tattoo involves repeated needle punctures that cause controlled skin trauma and bleeding. While on Xarelto, this bleeding may be excessive and difficult to control, potentially leading to significant blood loss, bruising, or hematoma formation. The increased bleeding can also affect the tattoo's appearance and healing process. Some key points to consider:
- Blood clotting disorders, such as those treated with Xarelto, are a contraindication for tattooing, as stated in a study on contraindications for tattooing 1.
- The efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban have been demonstrated in several studies, including a study on the safety and effectiveness of oral rivaroxaban versus standard anticoagulation for the treatment of symptomatic deep-vein thrombosis 2.
- A more recent study on the duration of primary/secondary treatment to prevent recurrent venous thromboembolism found that shorter duration of anticoagulation is more beneficial for the primary treatment of all types of VTE, but indefinite antithrombotic treatment is more beneficial for the secondary prevention of unprovoked VTE or VTE provoked by chronic risk factors 3.
- Other studies have also investigated the efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban in specific patient populations, such as elderly patients with venous thromboembolism 4, 5. If you're determined to get a tattoo, you should consult with the healthcare provider who prescribed your Xarelto to discuss options, which might include temporarily stopping the medication. However, stopping Xarelto requires careful medical supervision as it could increase your risk of developing blood clots. Never stop taking Xarelto without medical guidance. Most healthcare providers would recommend waiting until you've completed your course of anticoagulation therapy before getting a tattoo.