Is Xarelto a high risk medication?

Xarelto is considered a safe medication for most people when taken as directed. But, like all medications, there are still side effects and risks to consider when you’re taking it. Xarelto’s main risk is that it raises the chance of bleeding. But in studies, Xarelto had a lower risk of serious and fatal bleeding than warfarin. Your bleeding risk may be higher with Xarelto if you have liver or kidney disease, take other medications that make bleeding more likely (such as aspirin or certain antidepressants), or are age 65 or older. Let your prescriber know if you notice signs of mild bleeding while taking Xarelto. These include nose bleeds, light bruising, or bleeding from the gums while brushing your teeth. You should seek medical attention right away if you notice signs of severe bleeding, such as bleeding that doesn’t stop, blood in your urine, blood in your stool (can be bright red or black, tarry stool), coughing up blood, or vomiting blood (may look like coffee grounds).