PTCE Top 200 · #88

Rivaroxaban

Xarelto

Rivaroxaban is the generic name for the brand-name drug Xarelto. It is a doac (factor xa inhibitor) used to treat afib, DVT/PE prevention. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Rivaroxaban ranks #88 and is one of the most frequently tested cardiovascular medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.

Generic nameRivaroxaban
Brand name(s)Xarelto
Drug classDOAC (factor Xa inhibitor)
Class groupCardiovascular
Common useafib, DVT/PE prevention
DEA scheduleUnscheduled
AvailabilityPrescription only (Rx)

What is Rivaroxaban used for?

Oral factor Xa inhibitor anticoagulant used for stroke prevention in non‑valvular atrial fibrillation; treatment and prevention of DVT/PE; and postoperative VTE prophylaxis after hip/knee replacement (and other labeled uses).

What drug class is Rivaroxaban?

Rivaroxaban is a DOAC (factor Xa inhibitor) in the Cardiovascular group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.

Common side effects of Rivaroxaban

Major interactions

Is Rivaroxaban a controlled substance?

No. Rivaroxaban is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).

warning Boxed warning

WARNING: (A) Premature discontinuation increases the risk of thrombotic events; (B) Spinal/epidural hematoma risk with neuraxial anesthesia/spinal puncture.

How to remember Rivaroxaban (PTCE mnemonic)

X-arelto = 'Xa' blocker — riva-ROX-aban blocks factor Xa. Take with food (15/20mg); bleeding risk; NO routine INR; don't stop abruptly (stroke).
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PTCE exam tip

Rivaroxaban (-xaban) is a factor Xa inhibitor (DOAC) — take the treatment doses with food, and no routine INR monitoring (vs warfarin).

Rivaroxaban FAQ

What is the brand name for Rivaroxaban?

The brand name for Rivaroxaban is Xarelto.

What is Rivaroxaban used for?

Rivaroxaban is used to treat afib, DVT/PE prevention. Oral factor Xa inhibitor anticoagulant used for stroke prevention in non‑valvular atrial fibrillation; treatment and prevention of DVT/PE; and postoperative VTE prophylaxis after hip/knee replacement (and other labeled uses).

What drug class is Rivaroxaban?

Rivaroxaban is a DOAC (factor Xa inhibitor) (Cardiovascular group).

Is Rivaroxaban a controlled substance?

No. Rivaroxaban is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).

Related drugs in the Cardiovascular group

Drill Rivaroxaban the way the PTCE asks it

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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).