Key takeaways
Rivaroxaban (Xarelto) and ticagrelor (Brilinta) are both medications used to lower the risk of heart-related problems like heart attacks and strokes. However, they belong to different medication classes and work differently. Rivaroxaban is a direct-acting oral anticoagulant (DOAC) that prevents blood clots by blocking factor Xa, while ticagrelor is an antiplatelet medication that stops platelets from clumping together. Rivaroxaban is taken once or twice a day, depending on the condition, and is only available as a brand-name medication. Ticagrelor is taken twice a day and has a lower-cost generic version available. Common side effects of rivaroxaban include bleeding and tiredness, while ticagrelor can cause shortness of breath and nausea. Both medications can cause serious bleeding, which can be worsened by certain drug interactions. Rivaroxaban interacts with medications like ketoconazole and rifampin, while ticagrelor should not be taken with grapefruit juice, and both interact with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).
