Key takeaways
Xarelto (rivaroxaban) and aspirin are both used to prevent blood clots, but they work differently and have different uses. Aspirin is an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can help prevent heart attacks and strokes at low doses (81 mg). It can also reduce pain, fever, and inflammation. Xarelto, on the other hand, is a prescription-only blood thinner that specifically blocks a protein involved in blood clotting. It's used to treat and prevent conditions like deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. While aspirin is available in tablets and suppositories, Xarelto is only available in tablet form. Aspirin can cause stomach irritation and ulcers, whereas Xarelto's main side effect is bleeding, which can be serious and life-threatening.
