Use of Xarelto like any other blood thinner carries with it the risk of excessive bleeding. That’s because blood clotting plays an essential role in sealing injured blood vessels and, well, Xarelto reduces the formation of blood clots. So if you happen to injure yourself or open an old wound while taking Xarelto medication, you’ll find that the wound will bleed longer than usual. And this applies to both the simplest cuts and more severe injuries. Normally the bleeding isn’t any cause for concern, but sometimes it requires immediate medical attention. You should avoid abrasive or sharp objects, activities that can cause physical injuries (like football and rugby), and medication (like aspirin) that increase the risk of excessive bleeding while on Xarelto. If you experience symptoms such as dizziness or weakness, excessive menstrual bleeding, coughing up blood, severe headache and stomache, and blood in the urine or feces seek medical attention.

Other common side effects of Xarelto include:

  • Backpain
  • Bowel or bladder dysfunction
  • Burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, and tingling sensations
  • Difficulty with breathing or swallowing
  • Leg weakness
  • Nosebleeds
  • Bleeding gums
  • Paralysis
  • Vomit which contains blood

Contact your doctor if you experience any of these side effects.

Less common side effects of Xarelto include:

  • Fainting
  • Pain in the arms and legs
  • Muscle Spasms
  • Lethargy
  • Mouth irritation
  • Sinus irritation and congestion
  • Throat pain
  • Toothache
  • Small skin blisters

Contact your doctor if you experience any of these side effects.

Rare side effects include:

  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Difficult or painful urination
  • Decreases blood platelets
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes as a result of a defective liver
  • Hemiparesis
  • Stroke cause by bleeding in the brain

Seek medical help immediately if you notice any of these side effects. Remember, despite all these possible side effects your doctor will only prescribe Xarelto for you if he has determined that the benefits for you outweigh the risks.