Other
A. Premature discontinuation of XARELTO increases the risk of thrombotic events
Premature discontinuation of any oral anticoagulant, including XARELTO, increases the risk of thrombotic events. If anticoagulation with XARELTO is discontinued for a reason other than pathological bleeding or completion of a course of therapy, consider coverage with another anticoagulant [see Dosage and Administration (2.3, 2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1), and Clinical Studies (14.1)] .
B. Spinal/epidural hematoma
Epidural or spinal hematomas have occurred in patients treated with XARELTO who are receiving neuraxial anesthesia or undergoing spinal puncture. These hematomas may result in long-term or permanent paralysis. Consider these risks when scheduling patients for spinal procedures. Factors that can increase the risk of developing epidural or spinal hematomas in these patients include:
- use of indwelling epidural catheters
- concomitant use of other drugs that affect hemostasis, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), platelet inhibitors, other anticoagulants
- a history of traumatic or repeated epidural or spinal punctures
- a history of spinal deformity or spinal surgery
- optimal timing between the administration of XARELTO and neuraxial procedures is not known
- Less than 37 weeks of gestation at birth
- Less than 10 days of oral feeding
- Body weight of less than 2.6 kg.
- Mild renal impairment (eGFR: 50 to ≤ 80 mL/min/1.73 m 2): No dose adjustment is required.
- Moderate or severe renal impairment (eGFR: <50 mL/min/1.73 m 2): avoid use, as limited clinical data are available.
- k = 0.55 in children 1 year to 13 years
- k = 0.55 in girls > 13 and < 18 years
- k = 0.70 in boys > 13 and < 18 years
- Adults:
- Pediatric Patients:
- For patients receiving 2.5 mg twice daily: if a dose is missed, the patient should take a single 2.5 mg XARELTO dose as recommended at the next scheduled time.
- For patients receiving 15 mg twice daily: The patient should take XARELTO immediately to ensure intake of 30 mg XARELTO per day. Two 15 mg tablets may be taken at once.
- For patients receiving 20 mg, 15 mg or 10 mg once daily: The patient should take the missed XARELTO dose immediately. The dose should not be doubled within the same day to make up for a missed dose.
- If XARELTO is taken once a day, the patient should take the missed dose as soon as possible once it is noticed, but only on the same day. If this is not possible, the patient should skip the dose and continue with the next dose as prescribed. The patient should not take two doses to make up for a missed dose.
- If XARELTO is taken two times a day, the patient should take the missed morning dose as soon as possible once it is noticed. A missed morning dose may be taken together with the evening dose. A missed evening dose can only be taken in the same evening.
- If XARELTO is taken three times a day, if a dose is missed, the patient should skip the missed dose and go back to the regular dosing schedule at the usual time without compensating for the missed dose.
- Fatal bleeding event
Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH)
Non-intracranial - Symptomatic bleeding in critical organ (non-fatal)
- ICH (fatal and non-fatal)
Hemorrhagic Stroke
Other ICH - Bleeding into the surgical site requiring reoperation (non-fatal, not in critical organ)
- Bleeding leading to hospitalization (non-fatal, not in critical organ, not requiring reoperation)
- Advise patients to take XARELTO only as directed.
- Remind patients to not discontinue XARELTO without first talking to their healthcare professional.
- Advise patients with atrial fibrillation to take XARELTO once daily with the evening meal.
- Advise patients for initial treatment of DVT and/or PE to take XARELTO 15 mg or 20 mg tablets with food at approximately the same time every day [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)] .
- Advise patients who are at a continued risk of recurrent DVT and/or PE after at least 6 months of initial treatment, to take XARELTO 10 mg once daily with or without food [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)].
- Advise patients who cannot swallow the tablet whole to crush XARELTO and combine with a small amount of applesauce followed by food [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)] .
- For patients requiring an NG tube or gastric feeding tube, instruct the patient or caregiver to crush the XARELTO tablet and mix it with a small amount of water before administering via the tube [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)] .
- If a dose is missed, advise the patient according to the instructions in the Full Prescribing Information based on their dosing schedule [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)] .
- The adult caregiver should administer the dose. Advise caregivers to use the syringes provided in the original carton.
- Advise the caregiver whether the dose needs to be taken with food or not [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)] .
- Advise the caregiver the tablet must not be split in an attempt to provide a fraction of a tablet dose [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)] .
- If a child vomits or spits up the dose within 30 minutes after receiving the dose, a new dose should be given. However, if the child vomits more than 30 minutes after the dose is taken, the dose should not be re-administered and the next dose should be taken as scheduled. If a child vomits or spits up the dose repeatedly, the caregiver should contact the child's doctor right away [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)] .
- For children who are unable to swallow whole tablets, XARELTO oral suspension may be used.
- If a dose is missed, advise the patient according to the instructions in the Full Prescribing Information based on their dosing schedule [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)] .
- Advise patients to report any unusual bleeding or bruising to their physician. Inform patients that it might take them longer than usual to stop bleeding, and that they may bruise and/or bleed more easily when they are treated with XARELTO [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] .
- If patients have had neuraxial anesthesia or spinal puncture, and particularly, if they are taking concomitant NSAIDs or platelet inhibitors, advise patients to watch for signs and symptoms of spinal or epidural hematoma, such as back pain, tingling, numbness (especially in the lower limbs), muscle weakness, and stool or urine incontinence. If any of these symptoms occur, advise the patient to contact his or her physician immediately [see Boxed Warning] .
- Advise patients to inform their physician immediately if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during treatment with XARELTO [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)] .
- Advise pregnant women receiving XARELTO to immediately report to their physician any bleeding or symptoms of blood loss [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)] .
[see Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.3) and Adverse Reactions (6.2)].
Monitor patients frequently for signs and symptoms of neurological impairment. If neurological compromise is noted, urgent treatment is necessary [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] .
Consider the benefits and risks before neuraxial intervention in patients anticoagulated or to be anticoagulated for thromboprophylaxis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] .
Treatment of Venous Thromboembolism and Reduction in Risk of Recurrent Venous Thromboembolism in Pediatric Patients
| Dosage Form | Body Weight | 1 mg XARELTO = 1 mL Suspension | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dosage | Total Daily Dose
All doses should be taken with feeding or with food since exposures match that of 20 mg daily dose in adults. | ||||
| Once a Day
Once a day: approximately 24 hours apart; 2 times a day: approximately 12 hours apart; 3 times a day: approximately 8 hours apart | 2 Times a Day
| 3 Times a Day
| |||
| Oral Suspension Only | 2.6 kg to 2.9 kg | 0.8 mg | 2.4 mg | ||
| 3 kg to 3.9 kg | 0.9 mg | 2.7 mg | |||
| 4 kg to 4.9 kg | 1.4 mg | 4.2 mg | |||
| 5 kg to 6.9 kg | 1.6 mg | 4.8 mg | |||
| 7 kg to 7.9 kg | 1.8 mg | 5.4 mg | |||
| 8 kg to 8.9 kg | 2.4 mg | 7.2 mg | |||
| 9 kg to 9.9 kg | 2.8 mg | 8.4 mg | |||
| 10 kg to 11.9 kg | 3 mg | 9 mg | |||
| 12 kg to 29.9 kg | 5 mg | 10 mg | |||
| Oral Suspension or Tablets | 30 kg to 49.9 kg | 15 mg | 15 mg | ||
| ≥50 kg | 20 mg | 20 mg | |||
Dosing of XARELTO was not studied and therefore dosing cannot be reliably determined in the following patient populations. Its use is therefore not recommended in children less than 6 months of age with any of the following:
To increase absorption, all doses should be taken with feeding or with food.
Monitor the child's weight and review the dose regularly, especially for children below 12 kg. This is to ensure a therapeutic dose is maintained.
All pediatric patients (except <2 years old with catheter-related thrombosis): Therapy with XARELTO should be continued for at least 3 months in children with thrombosis. Treatment can be extended up to 12 months when clinically necessary. The benefit of continued therapy beyond 3 months should be assessed on an individual basis taking into account the risk for recurrent thrombosis versus the potential risk of bleeding.
Pediatric patients <2 years old with catheter-related thrombosis: Therapy with XARELTO should be continued for at least 1 month in children less than 2 years old with catheter-related thrombosis. Treatment can be extended up to 3 months when clinically necessary. The benefit of continued therapy beyond 1 month should be assessed on an individual basis taking into account the risk for recurrent thrombosis versus the potential risk of bleeding.
Thromboprophylaxis in Pediatric Patients with Congenital Heart Disease after the Fontan Procedure
| Dosage Form | Body Weight | 1 mg XARELTO = 1 mL Suspension | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dosage | Total Daily Dose
All doses can be taken with or without food since exposures match that of 10 mg daily dose in adults. | |||
| Once a Day
Once a day: approximately 24 hours apart; 2 times a day: approximately 12 hours apart. | 2 Times a Day
| |||
| Oral Suspension Only | 7 kg to 7.9 kg | 1.1 mg | 2.2 mg | |
| 8 kg to 9.9 kg | 1.6 mg | 3.2 mg | ||
| 10 kg to 11.9 kg | 1.7 mg | 3.4 mg | ||
| 12 kg to 19.9 kg | 2 mg | 4 mg | ||
| 20 kg to 29.9 kg | 2.5 mg | 5 mg | ||
| 30 kg to 49.9 kg | 7.5 mg | 7.5 mg | ||
| Oral Suspension or Tablets | ≥50 kg | 10 mg | 10 mg | |
Administration in Pediatric Patients
Food Effect:
For the treatment of VTE in children, the dose should be taken with food to increase absorption.
For thromboprophylaxis after Fontan procedure, the dose can be taken with or without food.
Vomit or Spit up: If the patient vomits or spits up the dose within 30 minutes after receiving the dose, a new dose should be given. However, if the patient vomits more than 30 minutes after the dose is taken, the dose should not be re-administered and the next dose should be taken as scheduled. If the patient vomits or spits up the dose repeatedly, the caregiver should contact the child's doctor right away.
Tablets: XARELTO tablet must not be split in an attempt to provide a fraction of a tablet dose.
For children unable to swallow 10, 15, or 20 mg whole tablets, XARELTO oral suspension should be used. XARELTO 2.5 mg tablets are not recommended for use in pediatric patients [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4)] .
Use in Renal Impairment in Pediatric Patients
Patients 1 Year of Age or Older
Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) can be done using the updated Schwartz formula, eGFR (Schwartz) = (0.413 × height in cm)/serum creatinine in mg/dL, if serum creatinine (SCr) is measured by an enzymatic creatinine method that has been calibrated to be traceable to isotope dilution mass spectrometry (IDMS).
If SCr is measured with routine methods that have not been recalibrated to be traceable to IDMS (e.g., the traditional Jaffé reaction), the eGFR should be obtained from the original Schwartz formula: eGFR (mL/min/1.73 m 2) = k * height (cm)/SCr (mg/dL), where k is proportionality constant:
Patients Less than 1 Year of Age
Determine renal function using serum creatinine. Avoid use of XARELTO in pediatric patients younger than 1 year with serum creatinine results above 97.5 th percentile, as no clinical data are available.
| Age | 97.5
th Percentile of Creatinine
(mg/dL) | 97.5
th Percentile of Creatinine
(µmol/L) |
|---|---|---|
| Week 2 | 0.52 | 46 |
| Week 3 | 0.46 | 41 |
| Week 4 | 0.42 | 37 |
| Month 2 | 0.37 | 33 |
| Month 3 | 0.34 | 30 |
| Month 4–6 | 0.34 | 30 |
| Month 7–9 | 0.34 | 30 |
| Month 10–12 | 0.36 | 32 |
Switching from Warfarin to XARELTO - When switching patients from warfarin to XARELTO, discontinue warfarin and start XARELTO as soon as the International Normalized Ratio (INR) is below 3.0 in adults and below 2.5 in pediatric patients to avoid periods of inadequate anticoagulation.
Switching from XARELTO to Warfarin –
No clinical trial data are available to guide converting patients from XARELTO to warfarin. XARELTO affects INR, so INR measurements made during coadministration with warfarin may not be useful for determining the appropriate dose of warfarin. One approach is to discontinue XARELTO and begin both a parenteral anticoagulant and warfarin at the time the next dose of XARELTO would have been taken.
To ensure adequate anticoagulation during the transition from XARELTO to warfarin, continue XARELTO for at least 2 days after the first dose of warfarin. After 2 days of co-administration, an INR should be obtained prior to the next scheduled dose of XARELTO. Co-administration of XARELTO and warfarin is advised to continue until the INR is ≥ 2.0.
Once XARELTO is discontinued, INR testing may be done reliably 24 hours after the last dose.
Switching from XARELTO to Anticoagulants other than Warfarin - For adult and pediatric patients currently taking XARELTO and transitioning to an anticoagulant with rapid onset, discontinue XARELTO and give the first dose of the other anticoagulant (oral or parenteral) at the time that the next XARELTO dose would have been taken [see Drug Interactions (7.4)] .
Switching from Anticoagulants other than Warfarin to XARELTO - For adult and pediatric patients currently receiving an anticoagulant other than warfarin, start XARELTO 0 to 2 hours prior to the next scheduled administration of the drug (e.g., low molecular weight heparin or non-warfarin oral anticoagulant) and omit administration of the other anticoagulant. For unfractionated heparin being administered by continuous infusion, stop the infusion and start XARELTO at the same time.
Adults
Pediatric Patients
On the following day, the patient should continue with their regular regimen.
Administration of XARELTO tablets via nasogastric (NG) tube or gastric feeding tube: After confirming gastric placement of the tube, XARELTO tablets (all strengths) may be crushed and suspended in 50 mL of water and administered via an NG tube or gastric feeding tube. Since rivaroxaban absorption is dependent on the site of drug release, avoid administration of XARELTO distal to the stomach which can result in reduced absorption and thereby, reduced drug exposure. After the administration of a crushed XARELTO 15 mg or 20 mg tablet, the dose should then be immediately followed by enteral feeding. Enteral feeding is not required following administration of the 2.5 mg or 10 mg tablets [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] .
Crushed XARELTO tablets (all strengths) are stable in water and in applesauce for up to 4 hours. An in vitro compatibility study indicated that there is no adsorption of rivaroxaban from a water suspension of a crushed XARELTO tablet to PVC or silicone nasogastric (NG) tubing.
Administration of XARELTO suspension via NG tube or gastric feeding tube: XARELTO oral suspension may be given through NG or gastric feeding tube. After the administration, flush the feeding tube with water.
For the treatment or reduction in risk of recurrent VTE in pediatric patients, the dose should then be immediately followed by enteral feeding to increase absorption. For the thromboprophylaxis in pediatric patients with congenital heart disease who have undergone the Fontan procedure, the dose does not require to be followed by enteral feeding.
An in vitro compatibility study indicated that XARELTO suspension can be used with PVC, polyurethane or silicone NG tubing.
Risk of Hemorrhage in Acutely Ill Medical Patients at High Risk of Bleeding
Acutely ill medical patients with the following conditions are at increased risk of bleeding with the use of XARELTO for primary VTE prophylaxis: history of bronchiectasis, pulmonary cavitation, or pulmonary hemorrhage, active cancer (i.e., undergoing acute, in-hospital cancer treatment), active gastroduodenal ulcer in the three months prior to treatment, history of bleeding in the three months prior to treatment, or dual antiplatelet therapy. XARELTO is not for use for primary VTE prophylaxis in these hospitalized, acutely ill medical patients at high risk of bleeding.
Reversal of Anticoagulant Effect
An agent to reverse the anti-factor Xa activity of rivaroxaban is available. Because of high plasma protein binding, rivaroxaban is not dialyzable [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] . Protamine sulfate and vitamin K are not expected to affect the anticoagulant activity of rivaroxaban. Use of procoagulant reversal agents, such as prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC), activated prothrombin complex concentrate or recombinant factor VIIa, may be considered but has not been evaluated in clinical efficacy and safety studies. Monitoring for the anticoagulation effect of rivaroxaban using a clotting test (PT, INR or aPTT) or anti-factor Xa (FXa) activity is not recommended.
Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation
Periodically assess renal function as clinically indicated (i.e., more frequently in situations in which renal function may decline) and adjust therapy accordingly [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)] . Consider dose adjustment or discontinuation of XARELTO in patients who develop acute renal failure while on XARELTO [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].
Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), Pulmonary Embolism (PE), and Reduction in the Risk of Recurrence of DVT and of PE
In patients with CrCl <30 mL/min, rivaroxaban exposure and pharmacodynamic effects are increased compared to patients with normal renal function. There are limited clinical data in patients with CrCl 15 to <30 mL/min; therefore, observe closely and promptly evaluate any signs or symptoms of blood loss in these patients. There are no clinical data in patients with CrCl <15 mL/min (including patients on dialysis); therefore, avoid the use of XARELTO in these patients.
Discontinue XARELTO in patients who develop acute renal failure while on treatment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)] .
Prophylaxis of Deep Vein Thrombosis Following Hip or Knee Replacement Surgery
In patients with CrCl <30 mL/min, rivaroxaban exposure and pharmacodynamic effects are increased compared to patients with normal renal function. There are limited clinical data in patients with CrCl 15 to <30 mL/min; therefore, observe closely and promptly evaluate any signs or symptoms of blood loss in these patients. There are no clinical data in patients with CrCl <15 mL/min (including patients on dialysis); therefore, avoid the use of XARELTO in these patients.
Discontinue XARELTO in patients who develop acute renal failure while on treatment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].
Prophylaxis of Venous Thromboembolism in Acutely Ill Medical Patients at Risk for Thromboembolic Complications Not at High Risk of Bleeding
In patients with CrCl <30 mL/min, rivaroxaban exposure and pharmacodynamic effects are increased compared to patients with normal renal function. There are limited clinical data in patients with CrCl 15 to <30 mL/min; therefore, observe closely and promptly evaluate any signs or symptoms of blood loss in these patients. There are no clinical data in patients with CrCl <15 mL/min (including patients on dialysis); therefore, avoid the use of XARELTO in these patients.
Discontinue XARELTO in patients who develop acute renal failure while on treatment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].
Pediatric Patients
There are limited clinical data in pediatric patients 1 year or older with moderate or severe renal impairment (eGFR <50 mL/min/1.73 m 2); therefore, avoid the use of XARELTO in these patients.
There are no clinical data in pediatric patients younger than 1 year with serum creatinine results above 97.5 th percentile; therefore, avoid the use of XARELTO in these patients [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)] .
Hemorrhage
The most common adverse reactions with XARELTO were bleeding complications [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] .
Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation
In the ROCKET AF trial, the most frequent adverse reactions associated with permanent drug discontinuation were bleeding events, with incidence rates of 4.3% for XARELTO vs. 3.1% for warfarin. The incidence of discontinuations for non-bleeding adverse events was similar in both treatment groups.
Table 5 shows the number of patients experiencing various types of bleeding events in the ROCKET AF trial.
| Parameter | XARELTO
N=7111 n (%/year) | Warfarin
N=7125 n (%/year) | XARELTO vs. Warfarin
HR (95% CI) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abbreviations: HR = Hazard Ratio, CI = Confidence interval, CRNM = Clinically Relevant Non-Major. | |||
| Major Bleeding
Defined as clinically overt bleeding associated with a decrease in hemoglobin of ≥2 g/dL, a transfusion of ≥2 units of packed red blood cells or whole blood, bleeding at a critical site, or with a fatal outcome. | 395 (3.6) | 386 (3.5) | 1.04 (0.90, 1.20) |
| Intracranial Hemorrhage (ICH)
Intracranial bleeding events included intraparenchymal, intraventricular, subdural, subarachnoid and/or epidural hematoma. | 55 (0.5) | 84 (0.7) | 0.67 (0.47, 0.93) |
| Hemorrhagic Stroke
Hemorrhagic stroke in this table specifically refers to non-traumatic intraparenchymal and/or intraventricular hematoma in patients on treatment plus 2 days. | 36 (0.3) | 58 (0.5) | 0.63 (0.42, 0.96) |
| Other ICH | 19 (0.2) | 26 (0.2) | 0.74 (0.41, 1.34) |
| Gastrointestinal (GI)
Gastrointestinal bleeding events included upper GI, lower GI, and rectal bleeding. | 221 (2.0) | 140 (1.2) | 1.61 (1.30, 1.99) |
| Fatal Bleeding
Fatal bleeding is adjudicated death with the primary cause of death from bleeding. | 27 (0.2) | 55 (0.5) | 0.50 (0.31, 0.79) |
| ICH | 24 (0.2) | 42 (0.4) | 0.58 (0.35, 0.96) |
| Non-intracranial | 3 (0.0) | 13 (0.1) | 0.23 (0.07, 0.82) |
Figure 1 shows the risk of major bleeding events across major subgroups.
| Note: The figure above presents effects in various subgroups all of which are baseline characteristics and all of which were pre-specified (diabetic status was not pre-specified in the subgroup but was a criterion for the CHADS2 score). The 95% confidence limits that are shown do not take into account how many comparisons were made, nor do they reflect the effect of a particular factor after adjustment for all other factors. Apparent homogeneity or heterogeneity among groups should not be over-interpreted. |
| Figure 1: Risk of Major Bleeding Events by Baseline Characteristics in ROCKET AF – On Treatment Plus 2 Days |
Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and/or Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
EINSTEIN DVT and EINSTEIN PE Studies
In the pooled analysis of the EINSTEIN DVT and EINSTEIN PE clinical studies, the most frequent adverse reactions leading to permanent drug discontinuation were bleeding events, with XARELTO vs. enoxaparin/Vitamin K antagonist (VKA) incidence rates of 1.7% vs. 1.5%, respectively. The mean duration of treatment was 208 days for XARELTO-treated patients and 204 days for enoxaparin/VKA-treated patients.
Table 6 shows the number of patients experiencing major bleeding events in the pooled analysis of the EINSTEIN DVT and EINSTEIN PE studies.
| Parameter | XARELTO
Treatment schedule in EINSTEIN DVT and EINSTEIN PE studies: XARELTO 15 mg twice daily for 3 weeks followed by 20 mg once daily; enoxaparin/VKA [enoxaparin: 1 mg/kg twice daily, VKA: individually titrated doses to achieve a target INR of 2.5 (range: 2.0–3.0)] N=4130 n (%) | Enoxaparin/VKA
N=4116 n (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Major bleeding event | 40 (1.0) | 72 (1.7) |
| Fatal bleeding | 3 (<0.1) | 8 (0.2) |
| Intracranial | 2 (<0.1) | 4 (<0.1) |
| Non-fatal critical organ bleeding | 10 (0.2) | 29 (0.7) |
| Intracranial
Treatment-emergent major bleeding events with at least >2 subjects in any pooled treatment group | 3 (<0.1) | 10 (0.2) |
| Retroperitoneal
| 1 (<0.1) | 8 (0.2) |
| Intraocular
| 3 (<0.1) | 2 (<0.1) |
| Intra-articular
| 0 | 4 (<0.1) |
| Non-fatal non-critical organ bleeding
Major bleeding which is not fatal or in a critical organ, but resulting in a decrease in Hb ≥ 2 g/dL and/or transfusion of ≥2 units of whole blood or packed red blood cells | 27 (0.7) | 37 (0.9) |
| Decrease in Hb ≥ 2 g/dL | 28 (0.7) | 42 (1.0) |
| Transfusion of ≥2 units of whole blood or packed red blood cells | 18 (0.4) | 25 (0.6) |
| Clinically relevant non-major bleeding | 357 (8.6) | 357 (8.7) |
| Any bleeding | 1169 (28.3) | 1153 (28.0) |
Reduction in the Risk of Recurrence of DVT and/or PE
EINSTEIN CHOICE Study
In the EINSTEIN CHOICE clinical study, the most frequent adverse reactions associated with permanent drug discontinuation were bleeding events, with incidence rates of 1% for XARELTO 10 mg, 2% for XARELTO 20 mg, and 1% for acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) 100 mg. The mean duration of treatment was 293 days for XARELTO 10 mg-treated patients and 286 days for aspirin 100 mg-treated patients.
Table 7 shows the number of patients experiencing bleeding events in the EINSTEIN CHOICE study.
| Parameter | XARELTO
Treatment schedule: XARELTO 10 mg once daily or aspirin 100 mg once daily. 10 mg N=1127 n (%) | Acetylsalicylic Acid (aspirin)
N=1131 n (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Major bleeding event | 5 (0.4) | 3 (0.3) |
| Fatal bleeding | 0 | 1 (<0.1) |
| Non-fatal critical organ bleeding | 2 (0.2) | 1 (<0.1) |
| Non-fatal non-critical organ bleeding
Major bleeding which is not fatal or in a critical organ, but resulting in a decrease in Hb ≥ 2 g/dL and/or transfusion of ≥ 2 units of whole blood or packed red blood cells. | 3 (0.3) | 1 (<0.1) |
| Clinically relevant non-major (CRNM) bleeding
Bleeding which was clinically overt, did not meet the criteria for major bleeding, but was associated with medical intervention, unscheduled contact with a physician, temporary cessation of treatment, discomfort for the patient, or impairment of activities of daily life. | 22 (2.0) | 20 (1.8) |
| Any bleeding | 151 (13.4) | 138 (12.2) |
In the EINSTEIN CHOICE study, there was an increased incidence of bleeding, including major and CRNM bleeding in the XARELTO 20 mg group compared to the XARELTO 10 mg or aspirin 100 mg groups.
Prophylaxis of Deep Vein Thrombosis Following Hip or Knee Replacement Surgery
In the RECORD clinical trials, the overall incidence rate of adverse reactions leading to permanent treatment discontinuation was 3.7% with XARELTO.
The rates of major bleeding events and any bleeding events observed in patients in the RECORD clinical trials are shown in Table 8.
| XARELTO 10 mg | Enoxaparin
Includes the placebo-controlled period for RECORD 2, enoxaparin dosing was 40 mg once daily (RECORD 1–3) | |
|---|---|---|
| Total treated patients | N=4487
n (%) | N=4524
n (%) |
| Major bleeding event | 14 (0.3) | 9 (0.2) |
| Fatal bleeding | 1 (<0.1) | 0 |
| Bleeding into a critical organ | 2 (<0.1) | 3 (0.1) |
| Bleeding that required re-operation | 7 (0.2) | 5 (0.1) |
| Extra-surgical site bleeding requiring transfusion of >2 units of whole blood or packed cells | 4 (0.1) | 1 (<0.1) |
| Any bleeding event
Includes major bleeding events | 261 (5.8) | 251 (5.6) |
| Hip Surgery Studies | N=3281
n (%) | N=3298
n (%) |
| Major bleeding event | 7 (0.2) | 3 (0.1) |
| Fatal bleeding | 1 (<0.1) | 0 |
| Bleeding into a critical organ | 1 (<0.1) | 1 (<0.1) |
| Bleeding that required re-operation | 2 (0.1) | 1 (<0.1) |
| Extra-surgical site bleeding requiring transfusion of >2 units of whole blood or packed cells | 3 (0.1) | 1 (<0.1) |
| Any bleeding event
| 201 (6.1) | 191 (5.8) |
| Knee Surgery Study | N=1206
n (%) | N=1226
n (%) |
| Major bleeding event | 7 (0.6) | 6 (0.5) |
| Fatal bleeding | 0 | 0 |
| Bleeding into a critical organ | 1 (0.1) | 2 (0.2) |
| Bleeding that required re-operation | 5 (0.4) | 4 (0.3) |
| Extra-surgical site bleeding requiring transfusion of >2 units of whole blood or packed cells | 1 (0.1) | 0 |
| Any bleeding event
| 60 (5.0) | 60 (4.9) |
Following XARELTO treatment, the majority of major bleeding complications (≥60%) occurred during the first week after surgery.
Prophylaxis of Venous Thromboembolism in Acutely Ill Medical Patients at Risk for Thromboembolic Complications Not at High Risk of Bleeding
In the MAGELLAN study, the most frequent adverse reactions associated with permanent drug discontinuation were bleeding events. Cases of pulmonary hemorrhage and pulmonary hemorrhage with bronchiectasis were observed. Patients with bronchiectasis/pulmonary cavitation, active cancer (i.e., undergoing acute, in-hospital cancer treatment), dual antiplatelet therapy or active gastroduodenal ulcer or any bleeding in the previous three months all had an excess of bleeding with XARELTO compared with enoxaparin/placebo and are excluded from all MAGELLAN data presented in Table 9. The incidence of bleeding leading to drug discontinuation was 2.5% for XARELTO vs. 1.4% for enoxaparin/placebo.
Table 9 shows the number of patients experiencing various types of bleeding events in the MAGELLAN study.
| MAGELLAN Study
Patients received either XARELTO or placebo once daily for 35 ±4 days starting in hospital and continuing post hospital discharge or received enoxaparin or placebo once daily for 10 ±4 days in the hospital. | XARELTO 10 mg
N=3218 n (%) | Enoxaparin 40 mg /placebo
N=3229 n (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Major bleeding
Defined as clinically overt bleeding associated with a drop in hemoglobin of ≥2 g/dL, a transfusion of ≥2 units of packed red blood cells or whole blood, bleeding at a critical site, or with a fatal outcome. Major bleeding events within each subcategory were counted once per patient, but patients may have contributed events to multiple subcategories. These events occurred during treatment or within 2 days of stopping treatment. | 22 (0.7) | 15 (0.5) |
| Critical site bleeding | 7 (0.2) | 4 (0.1) |
| Fatal bleeding
Fatal bleeding is adjudicated death with the primary cause of death from bleeding. | 3 (<0.1) | 1 (<0.1) |
| Clinically relevant non-major bleeding events (CRNM) | 93 (2.9) | 34 (1.1) |
Reduction of Risk of Major Cardiovascular Events in Patients with CAD
In the COMPASS trial overall, the most frequent adverse reactions associated with permanent drug discontinuation were bleeding events, with incidence rates of 2.7% for XARELTO 2.5 mg twice daily vs. 1.2% for placebo on background therapy for all patients with aspirin 100 mg once daily. The incidences of important bleeding events in the CAD and PAD populations in COMPASS were similar.
Table 10 shows the number of patients experiencing various types of major bleeding events in the COMPASS trial.
| Parameter | XARELTO
Treatment schedule: XARELTO 2.5 mg twice daily or placebo. All patients received background therapy with aspirin 100 mg once daily. N=9134 n (%/year) | Placebo
N=9107 n (%/year) | XARELTO vs. Placebo
HR (95 % CI) |
|---|---|---|---|
| CI: confidence interval; HR: hazard ratio; ISTH: International Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis | |||
| Modified ISTH Major Bleeding
Defined as i) fatal bleeding, or ii) symptomatic bleeding in a critical area or organ, such as intraarticular, intramuscular with compartment syndrome, intraspinal, intracranial, intraocular, respiratory, pericardial, liver, pancreas, retroperitoneal, adrenal gland or kidney; or iii) bleeding into the surgical site requiring reoperation, or iv) bleeding leading to hospitalization. | 263 (1.6) | 144 (0.9) | 1.8 (1.5, 2.3) |
| 12 (<0.1)
6 (<0.1) 6 (<0.1) | 8 (<0.1)
3 (<0.1) 5 (<0.1) | 1.5 (0.6, 3.7)
2.0 (0.5, 8.0) 1.2 (0.4, 4.0) | |
| 58 (0.3)
23 (0.1) 18 (0.1) 6 (<0.1) | 43 (0.3)
21 (0.1) 13 (<0.1) 9 (<0.1) | 1.4 (0.9, 2.0)
1.1 (0.6, 2.0) 1.4 (0.7, 2.8) 0.7 (0.2, 1.9) | |
| 7 (<0.1) | 6 (<0.1) | 1.2 (0.4, 3.5) | |
| 188 (1.1) | 91 (0.5) | 2.1 (1.6, 2.7) | |
| Major GI bleeding | 117 (0.7) | 49 (0.3) | 2.4 (1.7, 3.4) |
Reduction of Risk of Major Thrombotic Vascular Events in Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), Including Patients after Lower Extremity Revascularization due to Symptomatic PAD
The incidence of premature permanent discontinuation due to bleeding events for XARELTO 2.5 mg twice daily vs. placebo on background therapy with aspirin 100 mg once daily in VOYAGER was 4.1% vs. 1.6% and in COMPASS PAD was 2.7% vs. 1.3%, respectively.
Table 11 shows the number of patients experiencing various types of TIMI (Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction) major bleeding events in the VOYAGER trial. The most common site of bleeding was gastrointestinal.
| XARELTO
Treatment schedule: XARELTO 2.5 mg twice daily or placebo. All patients received background therapy with aspirin 100 mg once daily. N=3256 | Placebo
N=3248 | XARELTO vs. Placebo
HR (95 % CI) | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parameter | n (%) | Event rate
%/year | n (%) | Event rate
%/year | |
| CABG: Coronary artery bypass graft; CI: confidence interval; HR: hazard ratio; TIMI: Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction Bleeding Criteria | |||||
| TIMI Major Bleeding
(CABG/non-CABG) | 62 (1.9) | 0.96 | 44 (1.4) | 0.67 | 1.4 (1.0, 2.1) |
| Fatal bleeding | 6 (0.2) | 0.09 | 6 (0.2) | 0.09 | 1.0 (0.3, 3.2) |
| Intracranial bleeding | 13 (0.4) | 0.20 | 17 (0.5) | 0.26 | 0.8 (0.4, 1.6) |
| Clinically overt signs of hemorrhage associated with a drop in hemoglobin of ≥5 g/dL or drop in hematocrit of ≥15% | 46 (1.4) | 0.71 | 24 (0.7) | 0.36 | 1.9 (1.2, 3.2) |
Other Adverse Reactions
Non-hemorrhagic adverse reactions reported in ≥1% of XARELTO-treated patients in the EINSTEIN DVT and EINSTEIN PE studies are shown in Table 12.
| Body System
Adverse Reaction | ||
|---|---|---|
| EINSTEIN DVT Study | XARELTO 20 mg
N=1718 n (%) | Enoxaparin/VKA
N=1711 n (%) |
| Gastrointestinal disorders | ||
| Abdominal pain | 46 (2.7) | 25 (1.5) |
| General disorders and administration site conditions | ||
| Fatigue | 24 (1.4) | 15 (0.9) |
| Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders | ||
| Back pain | 50 (2.9) | 31 (1.8) |
| Muscle spasm | 23 (1.3) | 13 (0.8) |
| Nervous system disorders | ||
| Dizziness | 38 (2.2) | 22 (1.3) |
| Psychiatric disorders | ||
| Anxiety | 24 (1.4) | 11 (0.6) |
| Depression | 20 (1.2) | 10 (0.6) |
| Insomnia | 28 (1.6) | 18 (1.1) |
| EINSTEIN PE Study | XARELTO 20 mg
N=2412 n (%) | Enoxaparin/VKA
N=2405 n (%) |
| Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders | ||
| Pruritus | 53 (2.2) | 27 (1.1) |
Non-hemorrhagic adverse reactions reported in ≥1% of XARELTO-treated patients in RECORD 1–3 studies are shown in Table 13.
| Body System
Adverse Reaction | XARELTO
10 mg N=4487 n (%) | Enoxaparin
Includes the placebo-controlled period of RECORD 2, enoxaparin dosing was 40 mg once daily (RECORD 1–3) N=4524 n (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Injury, poisoning and procedural complications | ||
| Wound secretion | 125 (2.8) | 89 (2.0) |
| Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders | ||
| Pain in extremity | 74 (1.7) | 55 (1.2) |
| Muscle spasm | 52 (1.2) | 32 (0.7) |
| Nervous system disorders | ||
| Syncope | 55 (1.2) | 32 (0.7) |
| Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders | ||
| Pruritus | 96 (2.1) | 79 (1.8) |
| Blister | 63 (1.4) | 40 (0.9) |
Pediatric Patients
Treatment of Venous Thromboembolism and Reduction in Risk of Recurrent Venous Thromboembolism in Pediatric Patients
The safety assessment is based on data from the EINSTEIN Junior Phase 3 study in 491 patients from birth to less than 18 years of age. Patients were randomized 2:1 to receive body weight-adjusted doses of XARELTO or comparator (unfractionated heparin, low molecular weight heparin, fondaparinux or VKA).
Discontinuation due to bleeding events occurred in 6 (1.8%) patients in the XARELTO group and 3 (1.9%) patients in the comparator group.
Table 14 shows the number of patients experiencing bleeding events in the EINSTEIN Junior study. In female patients who had experienced menarche, ages 12 to <18 years of age, menorrhagia occurred in 23 (27%) female patients in the XARELTO group and 5 (10%) female patients in the comparator group.
| Parameter | XARELTO
Treatment schedule: body weight-adjusted doses of XARELTO; randomized 2:1 (XARELTO: Comparator). N=329 n (%) | Comparator Group
Unfractionated heparin (UFH), low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), fondaparinux or VKA. N=162 n (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Major bleeding
Defined as clinically overt bleeding associated with a decrease in hemoglobin of ≥2 g/dL, a transfusion of ≥2 units of packed red blood cells or whole blood, bleeding at a critical site, or with a fatal outcome. | 0 | 2 (1.2) |
| Clinically relevant non-major bleeding
Defined as clinically overt bleeding, which did not meet the criteria for major bleeding, but was associated with medical intervention, unscheduled contact with a physician, temporary cessation of treatment, discomfort for the patient, or impairment of activities of daily life. | 10 (3.0) | 1 (0.6) |
| Trivial bleeding | 113 (34.3) | 44 (27.2) |
| Any bleeding | 119 (36.2) | 45 (27.8) |
Non-bleeding adverse reactions reported in ≥5% of XARELTO-treated patients are shown in Table 15.
| Adverse Reaction | XARELTO
N=329 n (%) | Comparator Group
N=162 n (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Pain in extremity | 23 (7) | 7 (4.3) |
| Fatigue
The following terms were combined: fatigue, asthenia. | 23 (7) | 7 (4.3) |
A clinically relevant adverse reaction in XARELTO-treated patients was vomiting (10.6% in the XARELTO group vs 8% in the comparator group).
Thromboprophylaxis in Pediatric Patients with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) after the Fontan Procedure
The data below are based on Part B of the UNIVERSE study which was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of XARELTO for thromboprophylaxis in 98 children with CHD after the Fontan procedure who took at least one dose of study drug. Patients in Part B were randomized 2:1 to receive either body weight-adjusted doses of XARELTO or aspirin (approximately 5 mg/kg).
Discontinuation due to bleeding events occurred in 1 (1.6%) patient in the XARELTO group and no patients in the aspirin group.
Table 16 shows the number of patients experiencing bleeding events in the UNIVERSE study.
| Parameter | XARELTO
Treatment schedule: body weight-adjusted doses of XARELTO or aspirin (approximately 5 mg/kg); randomized 2:1 (XARELTO: Aspirin). N=64 n (%) | Aspirin
N=34 n (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Major Bleeding
Defined as clinically overt bleeding associated with a decrease in hemoglobin of ≥2 g/dL, a transfusion of the equivalent of ≥2 units of packed red blood cells or whole blood, bleeding at a critical site, or with a fatal outcome. | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Epistaxis leading to transfusion | 1 (1.6) | 0 |
| Clinically relevant non-major (CRNM) bleeding
Defined as clinically overt bleeding, which did not meet the criteria for major bleeding, but was associated with medical intervention, unscheduled contact with a physician, temporary cessation of treatment, discomfort for the patient, or impairment of activities of daily life. | 4 (6.3) | 3 (8.8) |
| Trivial bleeding | 21 (32.8) | 12 (35.3) |
| Any bleeding | 23 (35.9) | 14 (41.2) |
Non-bleeding adverse reactions reported in ≥5% of XARELTO-treated patients are shown in Table 17.
| Adverse Reaction | XARELTO
N=64 n (%) | Aspirin
N=34 n (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Cough | 10 (15.6) | 3 (8.8) |
| Vomiting | 9 (14.1) | 3 (8.8) |
| Gastroenteritis
The following terms were combined: Gastroenteritis: gastroenteritis, gastroenteritis viral Rash: rash, rash maculo-papular, viral rash | 8 (12.5) | 1 (2.9) |
| Rash
| 6 (9.4) | 2 (5.9) |
Interaction with Combined P-gp and Strong CYP3A Inhibitors
Avoid concomitant administration of XARELTO with known combined P-gp and strong CYP3A inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole and ritonavir) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] .
Although clarithromycin is a combined P-gp and strong CYP3A inhibitor, pharmacokinetic data suggests that no precautions are necessary with concomitant administration with XARELTO as the change in exposure is unlikely to affect the bleeding risk [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] .
Interaction with Combined P-gp and Moderate CYP3A Inhibitors in Patients with Renal Impairment
XARELTO should not be used in patients with CrCl 15 to <80 mL/min who are receiving concomitant combined P-gp and moderate CYP3A inhibitors (e.g., erythromycin) unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] .
Risk Summary
The limited available data on XARELTO in pregnant women are insufficient to inform a drug-associated risk of adverse developmental outcomes. Use XARELTO with caution in pregnant patients because of the potential for pregnancy related hemorrhage and/or emergent delivery. The anticoagulant effect of XARELTO cannot be reliably monitored with standard laboratory testing. Consider the benefits and risks of XARELTO for the mother and possible risks to the fetus when prescribing XARELTO to a pregnant woman [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.7)] .
Adverse outcomes in pregnancy occur regardless of the health of the mother or the use of medications. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2–4% and 15–20%, respectively.
Clinical Considerations
Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk
Pregnancy is a risk factor for venous thromboembolism and that risk is increased in women with inherited or acquired thrombophilias. Pregnant women with thromboembolic disease have an increased risk of maternal complications including pre-eclampsia. Maternal thromboembolic disease increases the risk for intrauterine growth restriction, placental abruption and early and late pregnancy loss.
Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions
Based on the pharmacologic activity of Factor Xa inhibitors and the potential to cross the placenta, bleeding may occur at any site in the fetus and/or neonate.
Labor or Delivery
All patients receiving anticoagulants, including pregnant women, are at risk for bleeding and this risk may be increased during labor or delivery [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]. The risk of bleeding should be balanced with the risk of thrombotic events when considering the use of XARELTO in this setting.
Data
Human Data
There are no adequate or well-controlled studies of XARELTO in pregnant women, and dosing for pregnant women has not been established. Post-marketing experience is currently insufficient to determine a rivaroxaban-associated risk for major birth defects or miscarriage. In an in vitro placenta perfusion model, unbound rivaroxaban was rapidly transferred across the human placenta.
Animal Data
Rivaroxaban crosses the placenta in animals. Rivaroxaban increased fetal toxicity (increased resorptions, decreased number of live fetuses, and decreased fetal body weight) when pregnant rabbits were given oral doses of ≥10 mg/kg rivaroxaban during the period of organogenesis. This dose corresponds to about 4 times the human exposure of unbound drug, based on AUC comparisons at the highest recommended human dose of 20 mg/day. Fetal body weights decreased when pregnant rats were given oral doses of 120 mg/kg during the period of organogenesis. This dose corresponds to about 14 times the human exposure of unbound drug. In rats, peripartal maternal bleeding and maternal and fetal death occurred at the rivaroxaban dose of 40 mg/kg (about 6 times maximum human exposure of the unbound drug at the human dose of 20 mg/day).
Risk Summary
Rivaroxaban has been detected in human milk. There are insufficient data to determine the effects of rivaroxaban on the breastfed child or on milk production. Rivaroxaban and/or its metabolites were present in the milk of rats. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for XARELTO and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from XARELTO or from the underlying maternal condition (see Data) .
Data
Animal Data
Following a single oral administration of 3 mg/kg of radioactive [ 14C]-rivaroxaban to lactating rats between Day 8 to 10 postpartum, the concentration of total radioactivity was determined in milk samples collected up to 32 hours post-dose. The estimated amount of radioactivity excreted with milk within 32 hours after administration was 2.1% of the maternal dose.
Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation
Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease not on Dialysis
In the ROCKET AF trial, patients with CrCl 30 to 50 mL/min were administered XARELTO 15 mg once daily resulting in serum concentrations of rivaroxaban and clinical outcomes similar to those in patients with better renal function administered XARELTO 20 mg once daily. Patients with CrCl <30 mL/min were not studied, but administration of XARELTO 15 mg once daily is expected to result in serum concentrations of rivaroxaban similar to those in patients with moderate renal impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] .
Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease on Dialysis
Clinical efficacy and safety studies with XARELTO did not enroll patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on dialysis. In patients with ESRD maintained on intermittent hemodialysis, administration of XARELTO 15 mg once daily will result in concentrations of rivaroxaban and pharmacodynamic activity similar to those observed in the ROCKET AF study [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2, 12.3)] . It is not known whether these concentrations will lead to similar stroke reduction and bleeding risk in patients with ESRD on dialysis as was seen in ROCKET AF.
Treatment of DVT and/or PE and Reduction in the Risk of Recurrence of DVT and/or PE
In the EINSTEIN trials, patients with CrCl values <30 mL/min at screening were excluded from the studies, but administration of XARELTO is expected to result in serum concentrations of rivaroxaban similar to those in patients with moderate renal impairment (CrCl 30 to <50 mL/min) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Observe closely and promptly evaluate any signs or symptoms of blood loss in patients with CrCl 15 to <30 mL/min. Avoid the use of XARELTO in patients with CrCl <15 mL/min.
Prophylaxis of DVT Following Hip or Knee Replacement Surgery
The combined analysis of the RECORD 1–3 clinical efficacy studies did not show an increase in bleeding risk for patients with CrCl 30 to 50 mL/min and reported a possible increase in total venous thromboemboli in this population. In the RECORD 1–3 trials, patients with CrCl values <30 mL/min at screening were excluded from the studies, but administration of XARELTO 10 mg once daily is expected to result in serum concentrations of rivaroxaban similar to those in patients with moderate renal impairment (CrCl 30 to <50 mL/min) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Observe closely and promptly evaluate any signs or symptoms of blood loss in patients with CrCl 15 to <30 mL/min. Avoid the use of XARELTO in patients with CrCl <15 mL/min.
Prophylaxis of Venous Thromboembolism in Acutely Ill Medical Patients at Risk for Thromboembolic Complications Not at High Risk of Bleeding
Patients with CrCl values <30 mL/min at screening were excluded from the MAGELLAN study. In patients with CrCl <30 mL/min a dose of XARELTO 10 mg once daily is expected to result in serum concentrations of rivaroxaban similar to those in patients with moderate renal impairment (CrCl 30 to <50 mL/min) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] . Observe closely and promptly evaluate any signs or symptoms of blood loss in patients with CrCl 15 to <30 mL/min. Avoid use of XARELTO in patients with CrCl <15 mL/min.
Reduction of Risk of Major Cardiovascular Events in Patients with CAD and Reduction of Risk of Major Thrombotic Vascular Events in Patients with PAD, Including Patients After Recent Lower Extremity Revascularization due to Symptomatic PAD
Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease not on Dialysis
Patients with a CrCl <15 mL/min at screening were excluded from COMPASS and VOYAGER, and limited data are available for patients with a CrCl of 15 to 30 mL/min. In patients with CrCl <30 mL/min, a dose of 2.5 mg XARELTO twice daily is expected to give an exposure similar to that in patients with moderate renal impairment (CrCl 30 to <50 mL/min) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] , whose efficacy and safety outcomes were similar to those with preserved renal function.
Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease on Dialysis
No clinical outcome data is available for the use of XARELTO with aspirin in patients with ESRD on dialysis since these patients were not enrolled in COMPASS or VOYAGER. In patients with ESRD maintained on intermittent hemodialysis, administration of XARELTO 2.5 mg twice daily will result in concentrations of rivaroxaban and pharmacodynamic activity similar to those observed in moderate renal impaired patients in the COMPASS study [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2, 12.3)] . It is not known whether these concentrations will lead to similar CV risk reduction and bleeding risk in patients with ESRD on dialysis as was seen in COMPASS.
Pediatric Use
No dosage adjustment is required in patients 1 year of age or older with mild renal impairment (eGFR 50 to ≤ 80 mL/min/1.73 m 2). There are limited clinical data in pediatric patients 1 year or older with moderate or severe renal impairment (eGFR <50 mL/min/1.73 m 2); therefore, avoid the use of XARELTO in these patients.
There are no clinical data in pediatric patients younger than 1 year with serum creatinine results above 97.5 th percentile; therefore, avoid the use of XARELTO in these patients [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)] .
Specific Populations
Renal Impairment
The relationship between systemic exposure and pharmacodynamic activity of rivaroxaban was altered in adult subjects with renal impairment relative to healthy control subjects [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)] .
| Measure | Parameter | Creatinine Clearance (mL/min) | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50–79 | 30–49 | 15–29 | ESRD (on dialysis)
Separate stand-alone study. | ESRD (post-dialysis)
| ||
| PT = Prothrombin time; FXa = Coagulation factor Xa; AUC = Area under the plasma concentration-time curve; AUEC = Area under the effect-time curve | ||||||
| Exposure | AUC | 44 | 52 | 64 | 47 | 56 |
| FXa Inhibition | AUEC | 50 | 86 | 100 | 49 | 33 |
| PT Prolongation | AUEC | 33 | 116 | 144 | 112 | 158 |
Hepatic Impairment
Anti-Factor Xa activity was similar in adult subjects with normal hepatic function and in mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh A class). There is no clear understanding of the impact of hepatic impairment beyond this degree on the coagulation cascade and its relationship to efficacy and safety.
Absorption
The absolute bioavailability of rivaroxaban is dose-dependent. For the 2.5 mg and 10 mg dose, it is estimated to be 80% to 100% and is not affected by food. XARELTO 2.5 mg and 10 mg tablets can be taken with or without food. XARELTO 20 mg administered in the fasted state has an absolute bioavailability of approximately 66%. Coadministration of XARELTO with food increases the bioavailability of the 20 mg dose (mean AUC and C max increasing by 39% and 76% respectively with food). XARELTO 15 mg and 20 mg tablets should be taken with food [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)] .
The maximum concentrations (C max) of rivaroxaban appear 2 to 4 hours after tablet intake. The pharmacokinetics of rivaroxaban were not affected by drugs altering gastric pH. Coadministration of XARELTO (30 mg single dose) with the H 2-receptor antagonist ranitidine (150 mg twice daily), the antacid aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide (10 mL) or XARELTO (20 mg single dose) with the PPI omeprazole (40 mg once daily) did not show an effect on the bioavailability and exposure of rivaroxaban (see Figure 3).
Absorption of rivaroxaban is dependent on the site of drug release in the GI tract. A 29% and 56% decrease in AUC and C max compared to tablet was reported when rivaroxaban granulate is released in the proximal small intestine. Exposure is further reduced when drug is released in the distal small intestine, or ascending colon. Avoid administration of rivaroxaban distal to the stomach which can result in reduced absorption and related drug exposure.
In a study with 44 healthy subjects, both mean AUC and C max values for 20 mg rivaroxaban administered orally as a crushed tablet mixed in applesauce were comparable to that after the whole tablet. However, for the crushed tablet suspended in water and administered via an NG tube followed by a liquid meal, only mean AUC was comparable to that after the whole tablet, and C max was 18% lower.
Distribution
Protein binding of rivaroxaban in human plasma is approximately 92% to 95%, with albumin being the main binding component. The steady-state volume of distribution in healthy subjects is approximately 50 L.
Metabolism
Approximately 51% of an orally administered [ 14C]-rivaroxaban dose was recovered as inactive metabolites in urine (30%) and feces (21%). Oxidative degradation catalyzed by CYP3A4/5 and CYP2J2 and hydrolysis are the major sites of biotransformation. Unchanged rivaroxaban was the predominant moiety in plasma with no major or active circulating metabolites.
Excretion
In a Phase 1 study, following the administration of [ 14C]-rivaroxaban, approximately one-third (36%) was recovered as unchanged drug in the urine and 7% was recovered as unchanged drug in feces. Unchanged drug is excreted into urine, mainly via active tubular secretion and to a lesser extent via glomerular filtration (approximate 5:1 ratio). Rivaroxaban is a substrate of the efflux transporter proteins P-gp and ABCG2 (also abbreviated BCRP). Rivaroxaban's affinity for influx transporter proteins is unknown.
Rivaroxaban is a low-clearance drug, with a systemic clearance of approximately 10 L/hr in healthy volunteers following intravenous administration. The terminal elimination half-life of rivaroxaban is 5 to 9 hours in healthy subjects aged 20 to 45 years.
Specific Populations
The effects of level of renal impairment, age, body weight, and level of hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of rivaroxaban are summarized in Figure 2.
Figure 2: Effect of Specific Adult Populations on the Pharmacokinetics of Rivaroxaban
[See Dosage and Administration (2.1)]
Gender
Gender did not influence the pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics of XARELTO.
Race
Healthy Japanese subjects were found to have 20 to 40% on average higher exposures compared to other ethnicities including Chinese. However, these differences in exposure are reduced when values are corrected for body weight.
Elderly
The terminal elimination half-life is 11 to 13 hours in the elderly subjects aged 60 to 76 years [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5)] .
Pediatric Patients
The rate and extent of absorption were similar between the tablet and suspension. After repeated administration of rivaroxaban for the treatment of VTE, the C max of rivaroxaban in plasma was observed at median times of 1.5 to 2.2 hours in subjects who ranged from birth to less than 18 years of age.
In children who were 6 months to 9 years of age, in vitro plasma protein binding of rivaroxaban is approximately 90%.
The half-life of rivaroxaban in plasma of pediatric patients treated for VTE decreased with decreasing age. Mean half-life values were 4.2 hours in adolescents, 3 hours in children 2 to 12 years of age, 1.9 hours in children 0.5 to <2 years of age, and 1.6 hours in children <0.5 years of age.
An exploratory analysis in pediatric patients treated for VTE did not reveal relevant differences in rivaroxaban exposure based on gender or race.
Hemodialysis in ESRD subjects: Systemic exposure to rivaroxaban administered as a single 15 mg dose in ESRD subjects dosed 3 hours after the completion of a 4-hour hemodialysis session (post-dialysis) is 56% higher when compared to subjects with normal renal function (see Table 18). The systemic exposure to rivaroxaban administered 2 hours prior to a 4-hour hemodialysis session with a dialysate flow rate of 600 mL/min and a blood flow rate in the range of 320 to 400 mL/min is 47% higher compared to those with normal renal function. The extent of the increase is similar to the increase in patients with CrCl 15 to 50 mL/min taking XARELTO 15 mg. Hemodialysis had no significant impact on rivaroxaban exposure. Protein binding was similar (86% to 89%) in healthy controls and ESRD subjects in this study.
Pediatric Patients: Limited clinical data are available in children 1 year or older with moderate or severe renal impairment (eGFR <50 mL/min/1.73 m 2) or in children younger than 1 year with serum creatinine results above 97.5th percentile [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)] .
Renal Impairment
The safety and pharmacokinetics of single-dose XARELTO (10 mg) were evaluated in a study in healthy subjects [CrCl ≥80 mL/min (n=8)] and in subjects with varying degrees of renal impairment (see Figure 2). Compared to healthy subjects with normal creatinine clearance, rivaroxaban exposure increased in subjects with renal impairment. Increases in pharmacodynamic effects were also observed [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)] .
Hepatic Impairment
The safety and pharmacokinetics of single-dose XARELTO (10 mg) were evaluated in a study in healthy adult subjects (n=16) and adult subjects with varying degrees of hepatic impairment (see Figure 2). No patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) were studied. Compared to healthy subjects with normal liver function, significant increases in rivaroxaban exposure were observed in subjects with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B) (see Figure 2). Increases in pharmacodynamic effects were also observed [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7)] .
No clinical data are available in pediatric patients with hepatic impairment.
Drug Interactions
In vitro studies indicate that rivaroxaban neither inhibits the major cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP1A2, 2C8, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 2J2, and 3A nor induces CYP1A2, 2B6, 2C19, or 3A. In vitro data also indicates a low rivaroxaban inhibitory potential for P-gp and ABCG2 transporters.
The effects of coadministered drugs on the pharmacokinetics of rivaroxaban exposure are summarized in Figure 3 [see Drug Interactions (7)] .
Figure 3: Effect of Coadministered Drugs on the Pharmacokinetics of Rivaroxaban in Adults
Anticoagulants
In a drug interaction study, single doses of enoxaparin (40 mg subcutaneous) and XARELTO (10 mg) given concomitantly resulted in an additive effect on anti-factor Xa activity. In another study, single doses of warfarin (15 mg) and XARELTO (5 mg) resulted in an additive effect on factor Xa inhibition and PT. Neither enoxaparin nor warfarin affected the pharmacokinetics of rivaroxaban (see Figure 3).
NSAIDs/Aspirin
In ROCKET AF, concomitant aspirin use (almost exclusively at a dose of 100 mg or less) during the double-blind phase was identified as an independent risk factor for major bleeding. NSAIDs are known to increase bleeding, and bleeding risk may be increased when NSAIDs are used concomitantly with XARELTO. Neither naproxen nor aspirin affected the pharmacokinetics of rivaroxaban (see Figure 3).
Clopidogrel
In two drug interaction studies where clopidogrel (300 mg loading dose followed by 75 mg daily maintenance dose) and XARELTO (15 mg single dose) were coadministered in healthy subjects, an increase in bleeding time to 45 minutes was observed in approximately 45% and 30% of subjects in these studies, respectively. The change in bleeding time was approximately twice the maximum increase seen with either drug alone. There was no change in the pharmacokinetics of either drug.
Drug-Disease Interactions with Drugs that Inhibit Cytochrome P450 3A Enzymes and Drug Transport Systems
In a pharmacokinetic trial, XARELTO was administered as a single dose in subjects with mild (CrCl = 50 to 79 mL/min) or moderate renal impairment (CrCl = 30 to 49 mL/min) receiving multiple doses of erythromycin (a combined P-gp and moderate CYP3A inhibitor). Compared to XARELTO administered alone in subjects with normal renal function (CrCl >80 mL/min), subjects with mild and moderate renal impairment concomitantly receiving erythromycin reported a 76% and 99% increase in AUC inf and a 56% and 64% increase in C max, respectively. Similar trends in pharmacodynamic effects were also observed.
EINSTEIN Deep Vein Thrombosis and EINSTEIN Pulmonary Embolism Studies
XARELTO for the treatment of DVT and/or PE was studied in EINSTEIN DVT [NCT00440193] and EINSTEIN PE [NCT00439777], multi-national, open-label, non-inferiority studies comparing XARELTO (at an initial dose of 15 mg twice daily with food for the first three weeks, followed by XARELTO 20 mg once daily with food) to enoxaparin 1 mg/kg twice daily for at least five days with VKA and then continued with VKA only after the target INR (2.0–3.0) was reached. Patients who required thrombectomy, insertion of a caval filter, or use of a fibrinolytic agent and patients with creatinine clearance <30 mL/min, significant liver disease, or active bleeding were excluded from the studies. The intended treatment duration was 3, 6, or 12 months based on investigator's assessment prior to randomization.
A total of 8281 (3449 in EINSTEIN DVT and 4832 in EINSTEIN PE) patients were randomized and followed on study treatment for a mean of 208 days in the XARELTO group and 204 days in the enoxaparin/VKA group. The mean age was approximately 57 years. The population was 55% male, 70% Caucasian, 9% Asian and about 3% Black. About 73% and 92% of XARELTO-treated patients in the EINSTEIN DVT and EINSTEIN PE studies, respectively, received initial parenteral anticoagulant treatment for a median duration of 2 days. Enoxaparin/VKA-treated patients in the EINSTEIN DVT and EINSTEIN PE studies received initial parenteral anticoagulant treatment for a median duration of 8 days. Aspirin was taken as on treatment concomitant antithrombotic medication by approximately 12% of patients in both treatment groups. Patients randomized to VKA had an unadjusted mean percentage of time in the INR target range of 2.0 to 3.0 of 58% in EINSTEIN DVT study and 60% in EINSTEIN PE study, with the lower values occurring during the first month of the study.
In the EINSTEIN DVT and EINSTEIN PE studies, 49% of patients had an idiopathic DVT/PE at baseline. Other risk factors included previous episode of DVT/PE (19%), recent surgery or trauma (18%), immobilization (16%), use of estrogen-containing drug (8%), known thrombophilic conditions (6%), or active cancer (5%).
In the EINSTEIN DVT and EINSTEIN PE studies, XARELTO was demonstrated to be non-inferior to enoxaparin/VKA for the primary composite endpoint of time to first occurrence of recurrent DVT or non-fatal or fatal PE [EINSTEIN DVT HR (95% CI): 0.68 (0.44, 1.04); EINSTEIN PE HR (95% CI): 1.12 (0.75, 1.68)]. In each study the conclusion of non-inferiority was based on the upper limit of the 95% confidence interval for the hazard ratio being less than 2.0.
Table 20 displays the overall results for the primary composite endpoint and its components for EINSTEIN DVT and EINSTEIN PE studies.
| Event | XARELTO 20 mg
Treatment schedule in EINSTEIN DVT and EINSTEIN PE studies: XARELTO 15 mg twice daily for 3 weeks followed by 20 mg once daily; enoxaparin/VKA [enoxaparin: 1 mg/kg twice daily, VKA: individually titrated doses to achieve a target INR of 2.5 (range: 2.0–3.0)] | Enoxaparin/VKA
| XARELTO vs. Enoxaparin/VKA
Hazard Ratio (95% CI) |
|---|---|---|---|
| EINSTEIN DVT Study | N=1731
n (%) | N=1718
n (%) | |
| Primary Composite Endpoint | 36 (2.1) | 51 (3.0) | 0.68 (0.44, 1.04) |
| Death (PE) | 1 (<0.1) | 0 | |
| Death (PE cannot be excluded) | 3 (0.2) | 6 (0.3) | |
| Symptomatic PE and DVT | 1 (<0.1) | 0 | |
| Symptomatic recurrent PE only | 20 (1.2) | 18 (1.0) | |
| Symptomatic recurrent DVT only | 14 (0.8) | 28 (1.6) | |
| EINSTEIN PE Study | N=2419
n (%) | N=2413
n (%) | |
| Primary Composite Endpoint | 50 (2.1) | 44 (1.8) | 1.12 (0.75, 1.68) |
| Death (PE) | 3 (0.1) | 1 (<0.1) | |
| Death (PE cannot be excluded) | 8 (0.3) | 6 (0.2) | |
| Symptomatic PE and DVT | 0 | 2 (<0.1) | |
| Symptomatic recurrent PE only | 23 (1.0) | 20 (0.8) | |
| Symptomatic recurrent DVT only | 18 (0.7) | 17 (0.7) |
Figures 6 and 7 are plots of the time from randomization to the occurrence of the first primary efficacy endpoint event in the two treatment groups in EINSTEIN DVT and EINSTEIN PE studies, respectively.
Figure 6: Time to First Occurrence of the Composite of Recurrent DVT or Non-fatal or Fatal PE by Treatment Group (Intent-to-Treat Population) – EINSTEIN DVT Study
Figure 7: Time to First Occurrence of the Composite of Recurrent DVT or Non-fatal or Fatal PE by Treatment Group (Intent-to-Treat Population) – EINSTEIN PE Study
EINSTEIN CHOICE Study
XARELTO for reduction in the risk of recurrence of DVT and of PE was evaluated in the EINSTEIN CHOICE study [NCT02064439], a multi-national, double-blind, superiority study comparing XARELTO (10 or 20 mg once daily with food) to 100 mg acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) once daily in patients who had completed 6 to 12 months of anticoagulant treatment for DVT and/or PE following the acute event. The intended treatment duration in the study was up to 12 months. Patients with an indication for continued therapeutic-dose anticoagulation were excluded.
Because the benefit-risk assessment favored the 10 mg dose versus aspirin compared to the 20 mg dose versus aspirin, only the data concerning the 10 mg dose is discussed below.
A total of 2275 patients were randomized and followed on study treatment for a mean of 290 days for the XARELTO and aspirin treatment groups. The mean age was approximately 59 years. The population was 56% male, 70% Caucasian, 14% Asian and 3% Black. In the EINSTEIN CHOICE study, 51% of patients had DVT only, 33% had PE only, and 16% had PE and DVT combined. Other risk factors included idiopathic VTE (43%), previous episode of DVT/PE (17%), recent surgery or trauma (12%), prolonged immobilization (10%), use of estrogen containing drugs (5%), known thrombophilic conditions (6%), Factor V Leiden gene mutation (4%), or active cancer (3%).
In the EINSTEIN CHOICE study, XARELTO 10 mg was demonstrated to be superior to aspirin 100 mg for the primary composite endpoint of time to first occurrence of recurrent DVT or non-fatal or fatal PE.
Table 21 displays the overall results for the primary composite endpoint and its components.
| Event | XARELTO
10 mg N=1,127 n (%) | Acetylsalicylic Acid (Aspirin)
100 mg N=1,131 n (%) | XARELTO 10 mg vs. Aspirin 100 mg
Hazard Ratio (95% CI) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Composite Endpoint | 13 (1.2) | 50 (4.4) | 0.26
(0.14, 0.47) p<0.0001 |
| Symptomatic recurrent DVT | 8 (0.7) | 29 (2.6) | |
| Symptomatic recurrent PE | 5 (0.4) | 19 (1.7) | |
| Death (PE) | 0 | 1 (<0.1) | |
| Death (PE cannot be excluded) | 0 | 1 (<0.1) |
Figure 8 is a plot of the time from randomization to the occurrence of the first primary efficacy endpoint event in the two treatment groups.
Figure 8: Time to First Occurrence of the Composite of Recurrent DVT or Non-fatal or Fatal PE by Treatment Group (Full Analysis Set) – EINSTEIN CHOICE Study
Instructions for Patient Use
Adults
Pediatric Patients
Bleeding Risks
Invasive or Surgical Procedures
Instruct patients to inform their healthcare professional that they are taking XARELTO before any invasive procedure (including dental procedures) is scheduled.
Concomitant Medication and Herbals
Advise patients to inform their physicians and dentists if they are taking, or plan to take, any prescription or over-the-counter drugs or herbals, so their healthcare professionals can evaluate potential interactions [see Drug Interactions (7)] .
Pregnancy and Pregnancy-Related Hemorrhage
Lactation
Advise patients to discuss with their physician the benefits and risks of XARELTO for the mother and for the child if they are nursing or intend to nurse during anticoagulant treatment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)] .
Females and Males of Reproductive Potential
Advise patients who can become pregnant to discuss pregnancy planning with their physician [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)] .
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