A. Premature discontinuation of XARELTO increases the risk of thrombotic events

Premature discontinuation of any oral anticoagulant, including XARELTO, increases the risk of thrombotic events. If anticoagulation with XARELTO is discontinued for a reason other than pathological bleeding or completion of a course of therapy, consider coverage with another anticoagulant [see Dosage and Administration (2.3, 2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1), and Clinical Studies (14.1)] .

B. Spinal/epidural hematoma

Epidural or spinal hematomas have occurred in patients treated with XARELTO who are receiving neuraxial anesthesia or undergoing spinal puncture. These hematomas may result in long-term or permanent paralysis. Consider these risks when scheduling patients for spinal procedures. Factors that can increase the risk of developing epidural or spinal hematomas in these patients include:

• use of indwelling epidural catheters
• concomitant use of other drugs that affect hemostasis, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), platelet inhibitors, other anticoagulants
• a history of traumatic or repeated epidural or spinal punctures
• a history of spinal deformity or spinal surgery
• optimal timing between the administration of XARELTO and neuraxial procedures is not known

[see Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.3) and Adverse Reactions (6.2)].

Monitor patients frequently for signs and symptoms of neurological impairment. If neurological compromise is noted, urgent treatment is necessary [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] .

Consider the benefits and risks before neuraxial intervention in patients anticoagulated or to be anticoagulated for thromboprophylaxis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] .

XARELTO is indicated to reduce the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in adult patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.

There are limited data on the relative effectiveness of XARELTO and warfarin in reducing the risk of stroke and systemic embolism when warfarin therapy is well-controlled [see Clinical Studies (14.1)].

XARELTO is indicated for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

XARELTO is indicated for the treatment of pulmonary embolism (PE).

XARELTO is indicated for the reduction in the risk of recurrence of DVT and/or PE in adult patients at continued risk for recurrent DVT and/or PE after completion of initial treatment lasting at least 6 months.

XARELTO is indicated for the prophylaxis of DVT, which may lead to PE in adult patients undergoing knee or hip replacement surgery.

XARELTO is indicated for the prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and VTE related death during hospitalization and post hospital discharge in adult patients admitted for an acute medical illness who are at risk for thromboembolic complications due to moderate or severe restricted mobility and other risk factors for VTE and not at high risk of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Clinical Studies (14.5)] .

XARELTO, in combination with aspirin, is indicated to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events (cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, and stroke) in adult patients with coronary artery disease.

XARELTO, in combination with aspirin, is indicated to reduce the risk of major thrombotic vascular events (myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, acute limb ischemia, and major amputation of a vascular etiology) in adult patients with PAD, including patients who have recently undergone a lower extremity revascularization procedure due to symptomatic PAD.

XARELTO is indicated for the treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and the reduction in the risk of recurrent VTE in pediatric patients from birth to less than 18 years after at least 5 days of initial parenteral anticoagulant treatment.

XARELTO is indicated for thromboprophylaxis in pediatric patients aged 2 years and older with congenital heart disease who have undergone the Fontan procedure.

If anticoagulation must be discontinued to reduce the risk of bleeding with surgical or other procedures, XARELTO should be stopped at least 24 hours before the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] . In deciding whether a procedure should be delayed until 24 hours after the last dose of XARELTO, the increased risk of bleeding should be weighed against the urgency of intervention. XARELTO should be restarted after the surgical or other procedures as soon as adequate hemostasis has been established, noting that the time to onset of therapeutic effect is short [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] . If oral medication cannot be taken during or after surgical intervention, consider administering a parenteral anticoagulant.

For adult patients who are unable to swallow whole tablets, XARELTO tablets (all strengths) may be crushed and mixed with applesauce immediately prior to use and administered orally. After the administration of a crushed XARELTO 15 mg or 20 mg tablet, the dose should be immediately followed by food. Administration with food is not required for the 2.5 mg or 10 mg tablets [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] .

Do not add flavor as product is already flavored (sweet and creamy).

Reconstitute before dispensing:

• Tap the bottle until all granules flow freely.
• Add 150 mL of purified water for reconstitution.
• Shake for 60 seconds. Check that all granules are wetted and the suspension is uniform.
• Push the adaptor into bottleneck and recap bottle.
• The suspension must be used within 60 days.
• Write the "Discard after" date on the bottle and carton.

Dispensing Instructions:

• Dispense in the original bottle.
• Dispense the bottle upright with the syringes provided in the original carton.

Store reconstituted suspension at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Do not freeze.

It is recommended the pharmacist counsel the caregiver on proper use. Alert the patient or caregiver to read the Medication Guide and Instructions for Use.

Premature discontinuation of any oral anticoagulant, including XARELTO, in the absence of adequate alternative anticoagulation increases the risk of thrombotic events. An increased rate of stroke was observed during the transition from XARELTO to warfarin in clinical trials in atrial fibrillation patients. If XARELTO is discontinued for a reason other than pathological bleeding or completion of a course of therapy, consider coverage with another anticoagulant [see Dosage and Administration (2.3, 2.4) and Clinical Studies (14.1)] .

XARELTO increases the risk of bleeding and can cause serious or fatal bleeding. In deciding whether to prescribe XARELTO to patients at increased risk of bleeding, the risk of thrombotic events should be weighed against the risk of bleeding.

Promptly evaluate any signs or symptoms of blood loss and consider the need for blood replacement. Discontinue XARELTO in patients with active pathological hemorrhage. The terminal elimination half-life of rivaroxaban is 5 to 9 hours in healthy subjects aged 20 to 45 years.

Concomitant use of other drugs that impair hemostasis increases the risk of bleeding. These include aspirin, P2Y ₁₂ platelet inhibitors, dual antiplatelet therapy, other antithrombotic agents, fibrinolytic therapy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) [see Drug Interactions (7.4)] , selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors.

Concomitant use of drugs that are known combined P-gp and strong CYP3A inhibitors increases rivaroxaban exposure and may increase bleeding risk [see Drug Interactions (7.2)] .

When neuraxial anesthesia (spinal/epidural anesthesia) or spinal puncture is employed, patients treated with anticoagulant agents for prevention of thromboembolic complications are at risk of developing an epidural or spinal hematoma which can result in long-term or permanent paralysis [see Boxed Warning] .

To reduce the potential risk of bleeding associated with the concurrent use of XARELTO and epidural or spinal anesthesia/analgesia or spinal puncture, consider the pharmacokinetic profile of XARELTO [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] . Placement or removal of an epidural catheter or lumbar puncture is best performed when the anticoagulant effect of XARELTO is low; however, the exact timing to reach a sufficiently low anticoagulant effect in each patient is not known.

An indwelling epidural or intrathecal catheter should not be removed before at least 2 half-lives have elapsed (i.e., 18 hours in young patients aged 20 to 45 years and 26 hours in elderly patients aged 60 to 76 years), after the last administration of XARELTO [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] . The next XARELTO dose should not be administered earlier than 6 hours after the removal of the catheter. If traumatic puncture occurs, delay the administration of XARELTO for 24 hours.

Should the physician decide to administer anticoagulation in the context of epidural or spinal anesthesia/analgesia or lumbar puncture, monitor frequently to detect any signs or symptoms of neurological impairment, such as midline back pain, sensory and motor deficits (numbness, tingling, or weakness in lower limbs), bowel and/or bladder dysfunction. Instruct patients to immediately report if they experience any of the above signs or symptoms. If signs or symptoms of spinal hematoma are suspected, initiate urgent diagnosis and treatment including consideration for spinal cord decompression even though such treatment may not prevent or reverse neurological sequelae.

No clinical data are available for adult patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Avoid use of XARELTO in patients with moderate (Child-Pugh B) and severe (Child-Pugh C) hepatic impairment or with any hepatic disease associated with coagulopathy since drug exposure and bleeding risk may be increased [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7)] .

No clinical data are available in pediatric patients with hepatic impairment.

Avoid concomitant use of XARELTO with known combined P-gp and strong CYP3A inhibitors [see Drug Interactions (7.2)] .

Avoid concomitant use of XARELTO with drugs that are known combined P-gp and strong CYP3A inducers [see Drug Interactions (7.3)] .

In pregnant women, XARELTO should be used only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the mother and fetus. XARELTO dosing in pregnancy has not been studied. The anticoagulant effect of XARELTO cannot be monitored with standard laboratory testing. Promptly evaluate any signs or symptoms suggesting blood loss (e.g., a drop in hemoglobin and/or hematocrit, hypotension, or fetal distress) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1)] .

On the basis of the GALILEO study, use of XARELTO is not recommended in patients who have had transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) because patients randomized to XARELTO experienced higher rates of death and bleeding compared to those randomized to an anti-platelet regimen. The safety and efficacy of XARELTO have not been studied in patients with other prosthetic heart valves or other valve procedures. Use of XARELTO is not recommended in patients with prosthetic heart valves.

Initiation of XARELTO is not recommended acutely as an alternative to unfractionated heparin in patients with pulmonary embolism who present with hemodynamic instability or who may receive thrombolysis or pulmonary embolectomy.

Direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs), including XARELTO, are not recommended for use in patients with triple-positive antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). For patients with APS (especially those who are triple positive [positive for lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin, and anti-beta 2-glycoprotein I antibodies]), treatment with DOACs has been associated with increased rates of recurrent thrombotic events compared with vitamin K antagonist therapy.

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice.

During clinical development for the approved indications, 34,947 adult patients were exposed to XARELTO.

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of XARELTO. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

Blood and lymphatic system disorders: agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia

Hepatobiliary disorders: jaundice, cholestasis, hepatitis (including hepatocellular injury)

Immune system disorders: hypersensitivity, anaphylactic reaction, anaphylactic shock, angioedema

Nervous system disorders: hemiparesis

Renal disorders: Anticoagulant-related nephropathy

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: Eosinophilic pneumonia

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Stevens-Johnson syndrome, drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS)

Rivaroxaban is a substrate of CYP3A4/5, CYP2J2, and the P-gp and ATP-binding cassette G2 (ABCG2) transporters. Combined P-gp and strong CYP3A inhibitors increase exposure to rivaroxaban and may increase the risk of bleeding. Combined P-gp and strong CYP3A inducers decrease exposure to rivaroxaban and may increase the risk of thromboembolic events.

Avoid concomitant use of XARELTO with drugs that are combined P-gp and strong CYP3A inducers (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampin, St. John's wort) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] .

Coadministration of enoxaparin, warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel and chronic NSAID use may increase the risk of bleeding [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Avoid concurrent use of XARELTO with other anticoagulants due to increased bleeding risk unless benefit outweighs risk. Promptly evaluate any signs or symptoms of blood loss if patients are treated concomitantly with aspirin, other platelet aggregation inhibitors, or NSAIDs [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] .

Females of reproductive potential requiring anticoagulation should discuss pregnancy planning with their physician.

The risk of clinically significant uterine bleeding, potentially requiring gynecological surgical interventions, identified with oral anticoagulants including XARELTO should be assessed in females of reproductive potential and those with abnormal uterine bleeding.

The safety and effectiveness of XARELTO have been established in pediatric patients from birth to less than 18 years for the treatment of VTE and the reduction in risk of recurrent VTE. Use of XARELTO is supported in these age groups by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies of XARELTO in adults with additional pharmacokinetic, safety and efficacy data from a multicenter, prospective, open-label, active-controlled randomized study in 500 pediatric patients from birth to less than 18 years of age. XARELTO was not studied and therefore dosing cannot be reliably determined or recommended in children less than 6 months who were less than 37 weeks of gestation at birth; had less than 10 days of oral feeding, or had a body weight of less than 2.6 kg [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Adverse Reactions (6.1), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) and Clinical Studies (14.8)] .

The safety and effectiveness of XARELTO have been established for use in pediatric patients aged 2 years and older with congenital heart disease who have undergone the Fontan procedure. Use of XARELTO is supported in these age groups by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies of XARELTO in adults with additional data from a multicenter, prospective, open-label, active controlled study in 112 pediatric patients to evaluate the single- and multiple-dose pharmacokinetic properties of XARELTO and the safety and efficacy of XARELTO when used for thromboprophylaxis for 12 months in children with single ventricle physiology who had the Fontan procedure [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Adverse Reactions (6.1), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) and Clinical Studies (14.9)] .

Clinical studies that evaluated safety, efficacy, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data support the use of XARELTO 10 mg, 15 mg, and 20 mg tablets in pediatric patients. For the XARELTO 2.5 mg tablets, there are no safety, efficacy, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data to support the use in pediatric patients. Therefore, XARELTO 2.5 mg tablets are not recommended for use in pediatric patients.

Although not all adverse reactions identified in the adult population have been observed in clinical trials of children and adolescent patients, the same warnings and precautions for adults should be considered for children and adolescents.

Of the total number of adult patients in clinical trials for the approved indications of XARELTO (N=64,943 patients), 64 percent were 65 years and over, with 27 percent 75 years and over. In clinical trials the efficacy of XARELTO in the elderly (65 years or older) was similar to that seen in patients younger than 65 years. Both thrombotic and bleeding event rates were higher in these older patients [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) and Clinical Studies (14)] .

In pharmacokinetic studies, compared to healthy adult subjects with normal creatinine clearance, rivaroxaban exposure increased by approximately 44 to 64% in adult subjects with renal impairment. Increases in pharmacodynamic effects were also observed [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] .

In a pharmacokinetic study, compared to healthy adult subjects with normal liver function, AUC increases of 127% were observed in adult subjects with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B).

The safety or PK of XARELTO in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) has not been evaluated [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] .

Avoid the use of XARELTO in patients with moderate (Child-Pugh B) and severe (Child-Pugh C) hepatic impairment or with any hepatic disease associated with coagulopathy.

No clinical data are available in pediatric patients with hepatic impairment.

XARELTO is a selective inhibitor of FXa. It does not require a cofactor (such as Anti-thrombin III) for activity. Rivaroxaban inhibits free FXa and prothrombinase activity. Rivaroxaban has no direct effect on platelet aggregation, but indirectly inhibits platelet aggregation induced by thrombin. By inhibiting FXa, rivaroxaban decreases thrombin generation.

Rivaroxaban produces dose-dependent inhibition of FXa activity. Clotting tests, such as prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and HepTest ^®, are also prolonged dose-dependently. In children treated with rivaroxaban, the correlation between anti-factor Xa to plasma concentrations is linear with a slope close to 1.

Monitoring for anticoagulation effect of rivaroxaban using anti-FXa activity or a clotting test is not recommended.

In a thorough QT study in healthy men and women aged 50 years and older, no QTc prolonging effects were observed for XARELTO (15 mg and 45 mg, single-dose).

Rivaroxaban was not carcinogenic when administered by oral gavage to mice or rats for up to 2 years. The systemic exposures (AUCs) of unbound rivaroxaban in male and female mice at the highest dose tested (60 mg/kg/day) were 1- and 2-times, respectively, the human exposure of unbound drug at the human dose of 20 mg/day. Systemic exposures of unbound drug in male and female rats at the highest dose tested (60 mg/kg/day) were 2- and 4-times, respectively, the human exposure.

Rivaroxaban was not mutagenic in bacteria (Ames-Test) or clastogenic in V79 Chinese hamster lung cells in vitro or in the mouse micronucleus test in vivo.

No impairment of fertility was observed in male or female rats when given up to 200 mg/kg/day of rivaroxaban orally. This dose resulted in exposure levels, based on the unbound AUC, at least 13 times the exposure in humans given 20 mg rivaroxaban daily.

The evidence for the efficacy and safety of XARELTO was derived from Rivaroxaban Once-daily oral direct factor Xa inhibition Compared with vitamin K antagonist for the prevention of stroke and Embolism Trial in Atrial Fibrillation (ROCKET AF) [NCT00403767], a multi-national, double-blind study comparing XARELTO (at a dose of 20 mg once daily with the evening meal in patients with CrCl >50 mL/min and 15 mg once daily with the evening meal in patients with CrCl 30 to 50 mL/min) to warfarin (titrated to INR 2.0 to 3.0) to reduce the risk of stroke and non-central nervous system (CNS) systemic embolism in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF). Patients had to have one or more of the following additional risk factors for stroke:

• a prior stroke (ischemic or unknown type), transient ischemic attack (TIA) or non-CNS systemic embolism, or
• 2 or more of the following risk factors:
  • age ≥75 years,
  • hypertension,
  • heart failure or left ventricular ejection fraction ≤35%, or
  • diabetes mellitus

ROCKET AF was a non-inferiority study designed to demonstrate that XARELTO preserved more than 50% of warfarin's effect on stroke and non-CNS systemic embolism as established by previous placebo-controlled studies of warfarin in atrial fibrillation.

A total of 14264 patients were randomized and followed on study treatment for a median of 590 days. The mean age was 71 years and the mean CHADS ₂ score was 3.5. The population was 60% male, 83% Caucasian, 13% Asian and 1.3% Black. There was a history of stroke, TIA, or non-CNS systemic embolism in 55% of patients, and 38% of patients had not taken a vitamin K antagonist (VKA) within 6 weeks at time of screening. Concomitant diseases of patients in this study included hypertension 91%, diabetes 40%, congestive heart failure 63%, and prior myocardial infarction 17%. At baseline, 37% of patients were on aspirin (almost exclusively at a dose of 100 mg or less) and few patients were on clopidogrel. Patients were enrolled in Eastern Europe (39%); North America (19%); Asia, Australia, and New Zealand (15%); Western Europe (15%); and Latin America (13%). Patients randomized to warfarin had a mean percentage of time in the INR target range of 2.0 to 3.0 of 55%, lower during the first few months of the study.

In ROCKET AF, XARELTO was demonstrated non-inferior to warfarin for the primary composite endpoint of time to first occurrence of stroke (any type) or non-CNS systemic embolism [HR (95% CI): 0.88 (0.74, 1.03)], but superiority to warfarin was not demonstrated. There is insufficient experience to determine how XARELTO and warfarin compare when warfarin therapy is well-controlled.

Table 19 displays the overall results for the primary composite endpoint and its components.

Figure 4 is a plot of the time from randomization to the occurrence of the first primary endpoint event in the two treatment arms.

Figure 4: Time to First Occurrence of Stroke (any type) or Non-CNS Systemic Embolism by Treatment Group (Intent-to-Treat Population)

Figure 4

Figure 5 shows the risk of stroke or non-CNS systemic embolism across major subgroups.

Note: The figure above presents effects in various subgroups all of which are baseline characteristics and all of which were pre-specified (diabetic status was not pre-specified in the subgroup, but was a criterion for the CHADS2 score). The 95% confidence limits that are shown do not take into account how many comparisons were made, nor do they reflect the effect of a particular factor after adjustment for all other factors. Apparent homogeneity or heterogeneity among groups should not be over-interpreted.

Figure 5: Risk of Stroke or Non-CNS Systemic Embolism by Baseline Characteristics in ROCKET AF Data are shown for all randomized patients followed to site notification that the study would end. (Intent-to-Treat Population)

Figure 5

The efficacy of XARELTO was generally consistent across major subgroups.

The protocol for ROCKET AF did not stipulate anticoagulation after study drug discontinuation, but warfarin patients who completed the study were generally maintained on warfarin. XARELTO patients were generally switched to warfarin without a period of coadministration of warfarin and XARELTO, so that they were not adequately anticoagulated after stopping XARELTO until attaining a therapeutic INR. During the 28 days following the end of the study, there were 22 strokes in the 4637 patients taking XARELTO vs. 6 in the 4691 patients taking warfarin.

Few patients in ROCKET AF underwent electrical cardioversion for atrial fibrillation. The utility of XARELTO for preventing post-cardioversion stroke and systemic embolism is unknown.

XARELTO was studied in 9011 patients (4487 XARELTO-treated, 4524 enoxaparin-treated patients) in the REgulation of Coagulation in ORthopedic Surgery to Prevent DVT and PE, Controlled, Double-blind, Randomized Study of BAY 59-7939 in the Extended Prevention of VTE in Patients Undergoing Elective Total Hip or Knee Replacement (RECORD 1, 2, and 3) [NCT00329628, NCT00332020, NCT00361894] studies.

The two randomized, double-blind, clinical studies (RECORD 1 and 2) in patients undergoing elective total hip replacement surgery compared XARELTO 10 mg once daily starting at least 6 to 8 hours (about 90% of patients dosed 6 to 10 hours) after wound closure versus enoxaparin 40 mg once daily started 12 hours preoperatively. In RECORD 1 and 2, a total of 6727 patients were randomized and 6579 received study drug. The mean age [± standard deviation (SD)] was 63 ± 12.2 (range 18 to 93) years with 49% of patients ≥65 years and 55% of patients were female. More than 82% of patients were White, 7% were Asian, and less than 2% were Black. The studies excluded patients undergoing staged bilateral total hip replacement, patients with severe renal impairment defined as an estimated creatinine clearance <30 mL/min, or patients with significant liver disease (hepatitis or cirrhosis). In RECORD 1, the mean exposure duration (± SD) to active XARELTO and enoxaparin was 33.3 ± 7.0 and 33.6 ± 8.3 days, respectively. In RECORD 2, the mean exposure duration to active XARELTO and enoxaparin was 33.5 ± 6.9 and 12.4 ± 2.9 days, respectively. After Day 13, oral placebo was continued in the enoxaparin group for the remainder of the double-blind study duration. The efficacy data for RECORD 1 and 2 are provided in Table 22.

One randomized, double-blind, clinical study (RECORD 3) in patients undergoing elective total knee replacement surgery compared XARELTO 10 mg once daily started at least 6 to 8 hours (about 90% of patients dosed 6 to 10 hours) after wound closure versus enoxaparin. In RECORD 3, the enoxaparin regimen was 40 mg once daily started 12 hours preoperatively. The mean age (± SD) of patients in the study was 68 ± 9.0 (range 28 to 91) years with 66% of patients ≥65 years. Sixty-eight percent (68%) of patients were female. Eighty-one percent (81%) of patients were White, less than 7% were Asian, and less than 2% were Black. The study excluded patients with severe renal impairment defined as an estimated creatinine clearance <30 mL/min or patients with significant liver disease (hepatitis or cirrhosis). The mean exposure duration (± SD) to active XARELTO and enoxaparin was 11.9 ± 2.3 and 12.5 ± 3.0 days, respectively. The efficacy data are provided in Table 23.

The efficacy and safety of XARELTO for prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism in acutely ill medical patients at risk for thromboembolic complications not at high risk of bleeding was evaluated in the MAGELLAN study ( Multicenter, r Andomized, parallel Group Efficacy and safety study for the prevention of venous thromboembolism in hospitalized medically i LL patients comparing rivaroxab aN with enoxaparin [NCT00571649]). MAGELLAN was a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group efficacy and safety study comparing XARELTO to enoxaparin, in the prevention of VTE in hospitalized acutely ill medical patients during the in-hospital and post-hospital discharge period. Eligible patients included adults who were at least 40 years of age, hospitalized for an acute medical illness, at risk of VTE due to moderate or severe immobility, and had additional risk factors for VTE. The population at risk of VTE was required to have one or more of the following VTE risk factors, i.e. prolonged immobilization, age ≥75 years, history of cancer, history of VTE, history of heart failure, thrombophilia, acute infectious disease contributing to the hospitalization and BMI ≥35 kg/m ²). The causes for hospitalization included heart failure, active cancer, acute ischemic stroke, acute infectious and inflammatory disease and acute respiratory insufficiency. Patients were randomized to receive either XARELTO 10 mg once daily for 35 ±4 days starting in hospital and continuing post hospital discharge (n=4050) or enoxaparin 40 mg once daily for 10 ±4 days starting in hospital followed by placebo post-discharge (n=4051).

The major efficacy outcome in the MAGELLAN trial was a composite endpoint that included asymptomatic proximal deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in lower extremity, symptomatic proximal or distal DVT in the lower extremity, symptomatic non-fatal pulmonary embolism (PE), and death related to venous thromboembolism (VTE).

A total of 6024 patients were evaluable for the major efficacy outcome analysis (2967 on XARELTO 10 mg once daily and 3057 on enoxaparin/placebo). The mean age was 68.9 years, with 37.1% of the subject population ≥ 75 years. VTE risk factors included severe immobilization at study entry (99.9%), D-dimer > 2× ULN (43.7%), history of heart failure (35.6%), BMI ≥ 35 kg/m ² (15.2%), chronic venous insufficiency (14.9%), acute infectious disease (13.9%), severe varicosis (12.5%), history of cancer (16.2%), history of VTE (4.5%), hormone replacement therapy (1.1%), and thrombophilia (0.3%), recent major surgery (0.8%) and recent serious trauma (0.2%). The population was 54.7% male, 68.2% White, 20.4% Asian, 1.9% Black and 5.3% Other. Admitting diagnoses for hospitalization were acute infectious diseases (43.8%) followed by congestive heart failure NYHA class III or IV (33.2%), acute respiratory insufficiency (26.4%), acute ischemic stroke (18.5%) and acute inflammatory diseases (3.4%).

Table 24 shows the overall results from the prespecified, modified intent-to-treat (mITT) analysis for the efficacy outcomes and their components. This analysis excludes approximately 25% of the patients mainly due to no ultrasonographic assessment (13.5%), inadequate assessment at day 35 (8.1%), or lack of intake of study medication (1.3%).

Patients with bronchiectasis/pulmonary cavitation, active cancer, dual antiplatelet therapy or active gastroduodenal ulcer or any bleeding in the previous three months (19.4%) all had an excess of bleeding with XARELTO compared with enoxaparin/placebo. Therefore, patients meeting these criteria were excluded from the following analyses presented below.

Table 25 provides the efficacy results for the subgroup of patients not at a high risk of bleeding.

The evidence for the efficacy and safety of XARELTO for the reduction in the risk of stroke, myocardial infarction, or cardiovascular death in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) or peripheral artery disease (PAD) was derived from the double-blind, placebo-controlled Cardiovascular Outco Mes for People using Anticoagulation Strategie S trial (COMPASS) [NCT10776424]. A total of 27,395 patients were evenly randomized to rivaroxaban 2.5 mg orally twice daily plus aspirin 100 mg once daily, rivaroxaban 5 mg orally twice daily alone, or aspirin 100 mg once daily alone. Because the 5 mg dose alone was not superior to aspirin alone, only the data concerning the 2.5 mg dose plus aspirin are discussed below.

Patients with established CAD or PAD were eligible. Patients with CAD who were younger than 65 years of age were also required to have documentation of atherosclerosis involving at least two vascular beds or to have at least two additional cardiovascular risk factors (current smoking, diabetes mellitus, an estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] <60 mL per minute, heart failure, or non-lacunar ischemic stroke ≥1 month earlier). Patients with PAD were either symptomatic with ankle brachial index <0.90 or had asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis ≥50%, a previous carotid revascularization procedure, or established ischemic disease of one or both lower extremities. Patients were excluded for use of dual antiplatelet, other non-aspirin antiplatelet, or oral anticoagulant therapies, ischemic, non-lacunar stroke within 1 month, hemorrhagic or lacunar stroke at any time, or eGFR <15 mL/min.

The mean age was 68 years and 21% of the subject population were ≥75 years. Of the included patients, 91% had CAD (and will be referred to as the COMPASS CAD population), 27% had PAD (and will be referred to as the COMPASS PAD population), and 18% had both CAD and PAD. Of the patients with CAD, 69% had prior MI, 60% had prior percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA)/atherectomy/ percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and 26% had history of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) prior to study. Of the patients with PAD, 49% had intermittent claudication, 27% had peripheral artery bypass surgery or peripheral percutaneous transluminal angioplasty, 26% had asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis > 50%, and 4% had limb or foot amputation for arterial vascular disease.

The mean duration of follow-up was 23 months. Relative to placebo, XARELTO reduced the rate of the primary composite outcome of stroke, myocardial infarction or cardiovascular death: HR 0.76 (95% CI: 0.66, 0.86; p=0.00004). In the COMPASS CAD population, the benefit was observed early with a constant treatment effect over the entire treatment period (see Table 26 and Figure 10).

A benefit-risk analysis of the data from COMPASS was performed by comparing the number of CV events (CV deaths, myocardial infarctions and non-hemorrhagic strokes) prevented to the number of fatal or life-threatening bleeding events (fatal bleeds + symptomatic non-fatal bleeds into a critical organ) in the XARELTO group versus the placebo group. Compared to placebo, during 10,000 patient-years of treatment, XARELTO would be expected to result in 70 fewer CV events and 12 additional life-threatening bleeds, indicating a favorable balance of benefits and risks.

The results in the COMPASS CAD population were consistent across major subgroups (see Figure 9).

Figure 9: Risk of Primary Efficacy Outcome by Baseline Characteristics in the COMPASS CAD Population (Intent-to-Treat Population) All patients received aspirin 100 mg once daily as background therapy.

Figure 9

CI: confidence interval

Figure 10: Time to First Occurrence of Primary Efficacy Outcome (Stroke, Myocardial Infarction, Cardiovascular Death) in the COMPASS CAD Population All patients received aspirin 100 mg once daily as background therapy.

Figure 10

The efficacy and safety of XARELTO 2.5 mg orally twice daily versus placebo on a background of aspirin 100 mg once daily in patients with PAD were evaluated in the COMPASS study (n=4996) and will be referred to as the COMPASS PAD population [see Clinical Studies (14.6)] .

The efficacy and safety of XARELTO were also evaluated for the reduction in the risk of the composite endpoint of myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, cardiovascular death, acute limb ischemia (ALI), and major amputation of a vascular etiology in patients undergoing a lower extremity infrainguinal revascularization procedure due to symptomatic peripheral artery disease (PAD) in the double-blinded, placebo-controlled Vascular Outcomes stud Y of ASA alon G with rivaroxaban in Endovascular or surgical limb Revascularization for peripheral artery disease (PAD) trial (VOYAGER) [NCT02504216]. A total of 6,564 patients were equally randomized to XARELTO 2.5 mg orally twice daily vs placebo on a background therapy of aspirin 100 mg once daily.

Eligible patients included adults who were at least 50 years of age with documented moderate to severe symptomatic lower extremity atherosclerotic PAD who had a successful peripheral surgical procedure and/or endovascular procedure with or without clopidogrel (up to a maximum of 6 months was allowed; median duration of therapy was 31 days). Patients had either a prior history of limb revascularization with ankle brachial index ≤0.85 or no prior history of limb revascularization with ankle brachial index ≤0.80. Patients in need of dual antiplatelet for >6 months, or any additional antiplatelet other than aspirin and clopidogrel, or oral anticoagulant, as well as patients with a history of intracranial hemorrhage, stroke, or transient ischemic attack (TIA), or patients with eGFR <15 mL/min were excluded.

The mean age was 67 years and 20% of the subject population was ≥75 years. Of the included patients, 35% had surgical revascularization, 47% had endovascular revascularization with clopidogrel, and 18% endovascular revascularization without clopidogrel. The median duration of follow-up was 30.8 months.

XARELTO 2.5 mg twice daily was superior to placebo in reducing the rate of the primary composite outcome of myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, cardiovascular death, acute limb ischemia (ALI), and major amputation of a vascular etiology. The primary efficacy outcome and its components are provided in Table 27. The Kaplan-Meier plot for the primary efficacy outcome can be seen in Figure 11. The secondary efficacy outcomes were tested for superiority in a prespecified, hierarchical order and the first five of seven endpoints were significantly reduced in the rivaroxaban treatment arm (see Table 27). Compared to placebo during 10,000 patient-years of treatment, XARELTO would be expected to result in 181 fewer primary outcome events and 29 more TIMI major bleeding events, indicating a favorable balance of benefits and risks.

Figure 11: Time to First Occurrence of Primary Efficacy Outcome (Myocardial Infarction, Ischemic Stroke, Cardiovascular Death, Acute Limb Ischemia, Major Amputation due to Vascular Origins) in VOYAGER All patients received aspirin 100 mg once daily as background therapy.

Figure 11

Figure 12 shows the risk of primary efficacy outcome across major subgroups. Subgroup analyses must be interpreted cautiously, as differences can reflect the play of chance among a large number of analyses. The primary efficacy endpoint generally shows homogeneous results across subgroups.

Figure 12: Risk of Primary Efficacy Outcome by Baseline Characteristics in VOYAGER (Intent-to-Treat Population) All patients received aspirin 100 mg once daily as background therapy.

Figure 12

Table 27 provides the efficacy event rates for the prespecified endpoints in VOYAGER and similar endpoints in the COMPASS PAD population.

XARELTO for the treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and reduction in the risk of recurrent VTE was evaluated in the EINSTEIN Junior Phase 3 study [NCT02234843], a multicenter, open-label, active-controlled, randomized study in 500 pediatric patients from birth to less than 18 years with confirmed VTE. There were 276 children aged 12 to <18 years, 101 children aged 6 to <12 years, 69 children aged 2 to <6 years, and 54 children aged <2 years. Patients <6 months of age were excluded from enrollment if they were <37 weeks of gestation at birth, or had <10 days of oral feeding, or had a body weight of <2.6 kg.

Index VTE was classified as either central venous catheter-related VTE (CVC-VTE), cerebral vein and sinus thrombosis (CVST), and all other VTE including DVT and PE (non-CVC-VTE).

Patients received initial treatment with therapeutic dosages of unfractionated heparin (UFH), low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), or fondaparinux for at least 5 days, and were randomized 2:1 to receive either body weight-adjusted doses of XARELTO (exposures to match that of 20 mg daily dose in adults) or comparator group (UFH, LMWH, fondaparinux or VKA) for a main study treatment period of 3 months (or 1 month for children <2 years with CVC-VTE). A diagnostic imaging test was obtained at baseline and at the end of the main study treatment. When clinically necessary, treatment was extended up to 12 months in total (or up to 3 months in total for children <2 years with CVC-VTE).

Table 28 displays the primary and secondary efficacy results.

Complete resolution of thrombus on repeat imaging without recurrent VTE occurred in 128 of 335 children (38.2%, 95% CI 33.0%, 43.5%) in the XARELTO group and 43 of 165 children (26.1%, 95% CI 19.8%, 33.0%) in the comparator group. Symptomatic recurrent VTE or major bleeding events occurred in 4 of 335 children (1.2%, 95% CI 0.4%, 3.0%) in the XARELTO group and 7 of 165 children (4.2%, 95% CI 2.0%, 8.4%) in the comparator group.

The efficacy and safety of XARELTO for thromboprophylaxis in pediatric patients with congenital heart disease who have undergone the Fontan procedure was evaluated in the UNIVERSE Phase 3 study [NCT02846532]. UNIVERSE was a prospective, open-label, active controlled, multicenter, 2-part study, designed to evaluate the single- and multiple-dose pharmacokinetic properties of XARELTO (Part A), and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of XARELTO when used for thromboprophylaxis for 12 months compared with aspirin (Part B) in children 2 to 8 years of age with single ventricle physiology who had the Fontan procedure. Patients in Part B were randomized 2:1 to receive either body weight-adjusted doses of XARELTO (exposures to match that of 10 mg daily dose in adults) or aspirin (approximately 5 mg/kg). Patients with eGFR <30 ml/min/1.73 m ² were excluded.

The median time between Fontan procedure and the first dose of XARELTO was 4 (range: 2–61) days in Part A and 34 (range: 2–124) days in part B. In comparison, the median time to initiating aspirin was 24 (range 2–117) days.

Table 29 displays the primary efficacy results.

Discard reconstituted suspension after "Discard after" date written on the bottle.

Storage of tablets, granules and reconstituted suspension:

Store at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].

Do not freeze the granules or reconstituted suspension.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Instructions for Patient Use

• Advise patients to take XARELTO only as directed.
• Remind patients to not discontinue XARELTO without first talking to their healthcare professional.

Bleeding Risks

• Advise patients to report any unusual bleeding or bruising to their physician. Inform patients that it might take them longer than usual to stop bleeding, and that they may bruise and/or bleed more easily when they are treated with XARELTO [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] .
• If patients have had neuraxial anesthesia or spinal puncture, and particularly, if they are taking concomitant NSAIDs or platelet inhibitors, advise patients to watch for signs and symptoms of spinal or epidural hematoma, such as back pain, tingling, numbness (especially in the lower limbs), muscle weakness, and stool or urine incontinence. If any of these symptoms occur, advise the patient to contact his or her physician immediately [see Boxed Warning] .

Invasive or Surgical Procedures

Instruct patients to inform their healthcare professional that they are taking XARELTO before any invasive procedure (including dental procedures) is scheduled.

Concomitant Medication and Herbals

Advise patients to inform their physicians and dentists if they are taking, or plan to take, any prescription or over-the-counter drugs or herbals, so their healthcare professionals can evaluate potential interactions [see Drug Interactions (7)] .

Pregnancy and Pregnancy-Related Hemorrhage

• Advise patients to inform their physician immediately if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during treatment with XARELTO [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)] .
• Advise pregnant women receiving XARELTO to immediately report to their physician any bleeding or symptoms of blood loss [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)] .

Lactation

Advise patients to discuss with their physician the benefits and risks of XARELTO for the mother and for the child if they are nursing or intend to nurse during anticoagulant treatment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)] .

Females and Males of Reproductive Potential

Advise patients who can become pregnant to discuss pregnancy planning with their physician [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)] .