1.7 Reduction of Risk of Major Cardiovascular Events in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

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

1.8 Reduction of Risk of Major Thrombotic Vascular Events in Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), Including Patients after Lower Extremity Revascularization due to Symptomatic PAD

Rivaroxaban tablets, in combination with aspirin, are 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.

2.1 Recommended Dosage in Adults

Table 1: Recommended Dosage in Adults

* Calculate CrCl based on actual weight. [See Warnings and Precautions (5.4) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)]

† See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)

2.3 Switching to and from Rivaroxaban Tablets

Switching from Warfarin to Rivaroxaban Tablets - When switching patients from warfarin to rivaroxaban tablets, discontinue warfarin and start rivaroxaban tablets as soon as the International Normalized Ratio (INR) is below 3.0 in adults to avoid periods of inadequate anticoagulation.

Switching from Rivaroxaban Tablets to Warfarin –

• Adults:

  No clinical trial data are available to guide converting patients from rivaroxaban tablets to warfarin. Rivaroxaban tablets affects INR, so INR measurements made during coadministration with warfarin may not be useful for determining the appropriate dose of warfarin. One approach is to discontinue rivaroxaban tablets and begin both a parenteral anticoagulant and warfarin at the time the next dose of rivaroxaban tablets would have been taken.
  Once rivaroxaban tablets is discontinued, INR testing may be done reliably 24 hours after the last dose.

Switching from Rivaroxaban Tablets to Anticoagulants other than Warfarin - For adult patients currently taking rivaroxaban tablets and transitioning to an anticoagulant with rapid onset, discontinue rivaroxaban tablets and give the first dose of the other anticoagulant (oral or parenteral) at the time that the next rivaroxaban tablets dose would have been taken [see Drug Interactions (7.4)].

Switching from Anticoagulants other than Warfarin to Rivaroxaban Tablets - For adult patients currently receiving an anticoagulant other than warfarin, start rivaroxaban tablets 0 to 2 hours prior to the next scheduled administration of the drug (e.g., low molecular weight heparin or non-warfarin oral anticoagulant) and omit administration of the other anticoagulant. For unfractionated heparin being administered by continuous infusion, stop the infusion and start rivaroxaban tablets at the same time.

2.4 Discontinuation for Surgery and other Interventions

If anticoagulation must be discontinued to reduce the risk of bleeding with surgical or other procedures, rivaroxaban tablets 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 rivaroxaban tablets, the increased risk of bleeding should be weighed against the urgency of intervention. Rivaroxaban tablets 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.

2.5 Missed Dose

Adults

• For patients receiving 2.5 mg twice daily: if a dose is missed, the patient should take a single 2.5 mg rivaroxaban tablets dose as recommended at the next scheduled time.

  On the following day, the patient should continue with their regular regimen.

2.6 Administration Options

For adult patients who are unable to swallow whole tablets, rivaroxaban tablets may be crushed and mixed with applesauce immediately prior to use and administered orally. Administration with food is not required for the 2.5 mg tablets [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Administration of rivaroxaban tablets via nasogastric (NG) tube or gastric feeding tube: After confirming gastric placement of the tube, rivaroxaban tablets may be crushed and suspended in 50 mL of water and administered via an NG tube or gastric feeding tube. Since rivaroxaban absorption is dependent on the site of drug release, avoid administration of rivaroxaban tablets distal to the stomach which can result in reduced absorption and thereby, reduced drug exposure. Enteral feeding is not required following administration of the 2.5 mg tablets [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Crushed rivaroxaban tablets are stable in water and in applesauce for up to 4 hours. An in vitro compatibility study indicated that there is no adsorption of rivaroxaban from a water suspension of a crushed rivaroxaban tablet to PVC or silicone nasogastric (NG) tubing.

5.1 Increased Risk of Thrombotic Events after Premature Discontinuation

Premature discontinuation of any oral anticoagulant, including rivaroxaban tablets, in the absence of adequate alternative anticoagulation increases the risk of thrombotic events. An increased rate of stroke was observed during the transition from rivaroxaban tablets to warfarin in clinical trials in another indication in patients. If rivaroxaban tablets are 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)].  

5.2 Risk of Bleeding

Rivaroxaban tablets increases the risk of bleeding and can cause serious or fatal bleeding. In deciding whether to prescribe rivaroxaban tablets 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 rivaroxaban tablets 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, P2Y12 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)].

Risk of Hemorrhage in Acutely Ill Medical Patients at High Risk of Bleeding

Acutely ill medical patients with the following conditions are at increased risk of bleeding with the use of rivaroxaban tablets for another indication: history of bronchiectasis, pulmonary cavitation, or pulmonary hemorrhage, active cancer (i.e., undergoing acute, in-hospital cancer treatment), active gastroduodenal ulcer in the three months prior to treatment, history of bleeding in the three months prior to treatment, or dual antiplatelet therapy. Rivaroxaban tablets are not for use for second another indication in these hospitalized, acutely ill medical patients at high risk of bleeding.

Reversal of Anticoagulant Effect

An agent to reverse the anti-factor Xa activity of rivaroxaban is available. Because of high plasma protein binding, rivaroxaban is not dialyzable [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Protamine sulfate and vitamin K are not expected to affect the anticoagulant activity of rivaroxaban. Use of procoagulant reversal agents, such as prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC), activated prothrombin complex concentrate or recombinant factor VIIa, may be considered but has not been evaluated in clinical efficacy and safety studies. Monitoring for the anticoagulation effect of rivaroxaban using a clotting test (PT, INR or aPTT) or anti-factor Xa (FXa) activity is not recommended.

5.3 Spinal/Epidural Anesthesia or Puncture

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 rivaroxaban tablets and epidural or spinal anesthesia/analgesia or spinal puncture, consider the pharmacokinetic profile of rivaroxaban tablets [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Placement or removal of an epidural catheter or lumbar puncture is best performed when the anticoagulant effect of rivaroxaban tablets 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 rivaroxaban tablets [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. The next rivaroxaban tablets dose should not be administered earlier than 6 hours after the removal of the catheter. If traumatic puncture occurs, delay the administration of rivaroxaban tablets 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.

5.4 Use in Patients with Renal Impairment

Pediatric Patients

There are no clinical data in pediatric patients younger than 1 year with serum creatinine results above 97.5th percentile; therefore, avoid the use of rivaroxaban tablets in these patients [Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

5.5 Use in Patients with Hepatic Impairment

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

Avoid use of rivaroxaban tablets 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.

5.6 Use with P-gp and Strong CYP3A Inhibitors or Inducers

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

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

5.7 Risk of Pregnancy-Related Hemorrhage

In pregnant women, rivaroxaban tablets should be used only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the mother and fetus. Rivaroxaban tablets dosing in pregnancy has not been studied. The anticoagulant effect of rivaroxaban tablets 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)].

5.8 Patients with Prosthetic Heart Valves

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

5.9 Acute PE in Hemodynamically Unstable Patients or Patients Who Require Thrombolysis or Pulmonary Embolectomy

Initiation of rivaroxaban tablets 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.

5.10 Increased Risk of Thrombosis in Patients with Triple Positive Antiphospholipid Syndrome

Direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs), including rivaroxaban tablets, 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.

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience

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.

Hemorrhage

The most common adverse reactions with rivaroxaban tablets were bleeding complications [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

Reduction of Risk of Major Cardiovascular Events in Patients with CAD

In the COMPASS trial overall, the most frequent adverse reactions associated with permanent drug discontinuation were bleeding events, with incidence rates of 2.7% for rivaroxaban 2.5 mg twice daily vs. 1.2% for placebo on background therapy for all patients with aspirin 100 mg once daily. The incidences of important bleeding events in the CAD and PAD populations in COMPASS were similar.

Table 10 shows the number of patients experiencing various types of major bleeding events in the COMPASS trial.

Table 10: Major Bleeding Events in COMPASS - On Treatment Plus 2 Days*

* Major bleeding events within each subcategory were counted once per patient, but patients may have contributed events to multiple subcategories. These events occurred during treatment or within 2 days of stopping treatment in the safety analysis set in COMPASS patients.

† Treatment schedule: Rivaroxaban  2.5 mg twice daily or placebo. All patients received background therapy with aspirin 100 mg once daily.

‡ Defined as i) fatal bleeding, or ii) symptomatic bleeding in a critical area or organ, such as intraarticular, intramuscular with compartment syndrome, intraspinal, intracranial, intraocular, respiratory, pericardial, liver, pancreas, retroperitoneal, adrenal gland or kidney; or iii) bleeding into the surgical site requiring reoperation, or iv) bleeding leading to hospitalization.

CI: confidence interval; HR: hazard ratio; ISTH: International Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis

Reduction of Risk of Major Thrombotic Vascular Events in Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), Including Patients after Lower Extremity Revascularization due to Symptomatic PAD

The incidence of premature permanent discontinuation due to bleeding events for rivaroxaban 2.5 mg twice daily vs. placebo on background therapy with aspirin 100 mg once daily in VOYAGER was 4.1% vs. 1.6% and in COMPASS PAD was 2.7% vs. 1.3%, respectively.

Table 11 shows the number of patients experiencing various types of TIMI (Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction) major bleeding events in the VOYAGER trial. The most common site of bleeding was gastrointestinal.

Table 11: Major Bleeding Events* in VOYAGER- On Treatment Plus 2 Days

* Major bleeding events within each subcategory were counted once per patient, but patients may have contributed events to multiple subcategories.

† Treatment schedule: Rivaroxaban  2.5 mg twice daily or placebo. All patients received background therapy with aspirin 100 mg once daily.

CABG: Coronary artery bypass graft; CI: confidence interval; HR: hazard ratio; TIMI: Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction Bleeding Criteria

Other Adverse Reactions

Non-hemorrhagic adverse reactions reported in ≥1% of rivaroxaban-treated patients in the EINSTEIN 1 (Study) and EINSTEIN 2 (Study) studies are shown in Table 12.

Table 12: Other Adverse Reactions* Reported by ≥1% of Rivaroxaban-Treated Patients in EINSTEIN 1 (Study) and EINSTEIN 2 (Study)

* Adverse reaction with Relative Risk >1.5 for rivaroxaban versus comparator

Non-hemorrhagic adverse reactions reported in ≥1% of rivaroxaban-treated patients in RECORD 1 to 3 studies are shown in Table 13.

Table 13: Other Adverse Drug Reactions* Reported by ≥1% of Rivaroxaban-Treated Patients in RECORD 1 to 3 Studies

* Adverse reaction occurring any time following the first dose of double-blind medication, which may have been prior to administration of active drug, until two days after the last dose of double-blind study medication

† Includes the placebo-controlled period of RECORD 2, enoxaparin dosing was 40 mg once daily (RECORD 1 to 3)

6.2 Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of rivaroxaban tablets. 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)

7.1 General Inhibition and Induction Properties

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.

7.2 Drugs that Inhibit Cytochrome P450 3A Enzymes and Drug Transport Systems

Interaction with Combined P-gp and Strong CYP3A Inhibitors

Avoid concomitant administration of rivaroxaban tablets with known combined P-gp and strong CYP3A inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole and ritonavir) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Although clarithromycin is a combined P-gp and strong CYP3A inhibitor, pharmacokinetic data suggests that no precautions are necessary with concomitant administration with rivaroxaban tablets as the change in exposure is unlikely to affect the bleeding risk [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Interaction with Combined P-gp and Moderate CYP3A Inhibitors in Patients with Renal Impairment

Rivaroxaban tablets should not be used in patients with CrCl 15 to <80 mL/min who are receiving concomitant combined P-gp and moderate CYP3A inhibitors (e.g., erythromycin) unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

7.3 Drugs that Induce Cytochrome P450 3A Enzymes and Drug Transport Systems

Avoid concomitant use of rivaroxaban tablets 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)].

7.4 Anticoagulants and NSAIDs/Aspirin

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 rivaroxaban tablets 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)].

8.1 Pregnancy

Risk Summary

The limited available data on rivaroxaban tablets in pregnant women are insufficient to inform a drug- associated risk of adverse developmental outcomes. Use rivaroxaban tablets with caution in pregnant patients because of the potential for pregnancy related hemorrhage and/or emergent delivery. The anticoagulant effect of rivaroxaban tablets cannot be reliably monitored with standard laboratory testing. Consider the benefits and risks of rivaroxaban tablets for the mother and possible risks to the fetus when prescribing rivaroxaban tablets to a pregnant woman [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.7)].

Adverse outcomes in pregnancy occur regardless of the health of the mother or the use of medications. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.

Clinical Considerations

Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk

Pregnancy is a risk factor for venous thromboembolism and that risk is increased in women with inherited or acquired thrombophilias. Pregnant women with thromboembolic disease have an increased risk of maternal complications including pre-eclampsia. Maternal thromboembolic disease increases the risk for intrauterine growth restriction, placental abruption and early and late pregnancy loss.

Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions

Based on the pharmacologic activity of Factor Xa inhibitors and the potential to cross the placenta, bleeding may occur at any site in the fetus and/or neonate.

Labor or Delivery

All patients receiving anticoagulants, including pregnant women, are at risk for bleeding and this risk may be increased during labor or delivery [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]. The risk of bleeding should be balanced with the risk of thrombotic events when considering the use of rivaroxaban tablets in this setting.

Data

Human Data

There are no adequate or well-controlled studies of rivaroxaban tablets in pregnant women, and dosing for pregnant women has not been established. Post-marketing experience is currently insufficient to determine a rivaroxaban-associated risk for major birth defects or miscarriage. In an in vitro placenta perfusion model, unbound rivaroxaban was rapidly transferred across the human placenta.

Animal Data

Rivaroxaban crosses the placenta in animals. Rivaroxaban increased fetal toxicity (increased resorptions, decreased number of live fetuses, and decreased fetal body weight) when pregnant rabbits were given oral doses of ≥10 mg/kg rivaroxaban during the period of organogenesis. This dose corresponds to about 4 times the human exposure of unbound drug, based on AUC comparisons at the highest recommended human dose of 20 mg/day. Fetal body weights decreased when pregnant rats were given oral doses of 120 mg/kg during the period of organogenesis. This dose corresponds to about 14 times the human exposure of unbound drug. In rats, peripartal maternal bleeding and maternal and fetal death occurred at the rivaroxaban dose of 40 mg/kg (about 6 times maximum human exposure of the unbound drug at the human dose of 20 mg/day).

8.2 Lactation

Risk Summary

Rivaroxaban has been detected in human milk. There are insufficient data to determine the effects of rivaroxaban on the breastfed child or on milk production. Rivaroxaban and/or its metabolites were present in the milk of rats. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for rivaroxaban tablets and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from rivaroxaban tablets or from the underlying maternal condition (see Data).

Data

Animal Data

Following a single oral administration of 3 mg/kg of radioactive [14C]-rivaroxaban to lactating rats between Day 8 to 10 postpartum, the concentration of total radioactivity was determined in milk samples collected up to 32 hours post-dose. The estimated amount of radioactivity excreted with milk within 32 hours after administration was 2.1% of the maternal dose.

8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential

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 rivaroxaban should be assessed in females of reproductive potential and those with abnormal uterine bleeding.

8.4 Pediatric Use

For the rivaroxaban 2.5 mg tablets, there are no safety, efficacy, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data to support the use in pediatric patients. Therefore, rivaroxaban 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.

8.5 Geriatric Use

Of the total number of adult patients in clinical trials for the approved indications of rivaroxaban tablets (N=64,943 patients), 64 percent were 65 years and over, with 27 percent 75 years and over. In clinical trials the efficacy of rivaroxaban tablets 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)].

8.6 Renal Impairment

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)].

Reduction of Risk of Major Cardiovascular Events in Patients with CAD and Reduction of Risk of Major Thrombotic Vascular Events in Patients with PAD, Including Patients After Recent Lower Extremity Revascularization due to Symptomatic PAD

Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease not on Dialysis

Patients with a CrCl <15 mL/min at screening were excluded from COMPASS and VOYAGER, and limited data are available for patients with a CrCl of 15 to 30 mL/min. In patients with CrCl <30 mL/min, a dose of 2.5 mg rivaroxaban tablets twice daily is expected to give an exposure similar to that in patients with moderate renal impairment (CrCl 30 to <50 mL/min) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], whose efficacy and safety outcomes were similar to those with preserved renal function.

Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease on Dialysis

No clinical outcome data is available for the use of rivaroxaban tablets with aspirin in patients with ESRD on dialysis since these patients were not enrolled in COMPASS or VOYAGER. In patients with ESRD maintained on intermittent hemodialysis, administration of rivaroxaban tablets 2.5 mg twice daily will result in concentrations of rivaroxaban and pharmacodynamic activity similar to those observed in moderate renal impaired patients in the COMPASS study [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2, 12.3)]. It is not known whether these concentrations will lead to similar CV risk reduction and bleeding risk in patients with ESRD on dialysis as was seen in COMPASS.

There are no clinical data in pediatric patients younger than 1 year with serum creatinine results above 97.5th percentile; therefore, avoid the use of rivaroxaban tablets in these patients.

8.7 Hepatic Impairment

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 rivaroxaban tablets in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) has not been evaluated [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Avoid the use of rivaroxaban tablets 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.

12.1 Mechanism of Action

Rivaroxaban tablets 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.

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

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.

Specific Populations

Renal Impairment

The relationship between systemic exposure and pharmacodynamic activity of rivaroxaban was altered in adult subjects with renal impairment relative to healthy control subjects [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

Table 18: Percentage Increase in Rivaroxaban PK and PD Measures in Adult Subjects with Renal Impairment Relative to Healthy Subjects from Clinical Pharmacology Studies

*Separate stand-alone study.

PT = Prothrombin time; FXa = Coagulation factor Xa; AUC = Area under the plasma concentration-time curve; AUEC = Area under the effect-time curve  

Hepatic Impairment

Anti-Factor Xa activity was similar in adult subjects with normal hepatic function and in mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh A class). There is no clear understanding of the impact of hepatic impairment beyond this degree on the coagulation cascade and its relationship to efficacy and safety.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

Absorption

The absolute bioavailability of rivaroxaban is dose-dependent. For the 2.5 mg and 10 mg dose, it is estimated to be 80% to 100% and is not affected by food. Rivaroxaban tablets 2.5 mg and 10 mg tablets can be taken with or without food. rivaroxaban tablets 20 mg administered in the fasted state has an absolute bioavailability of approximately 66%. Coadministration of rivaroxaban tablets with food increases the bioavailability of the 20 mg dose (mean AUC and Cmax increasing by 39% and 76% respectively with food). Rivaroxaban tablets 15 mg and 20 mg tablets should be taken with food [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)].  

The maximum concentrations (Cmax) of rivaroxaban appear 2 to 4 hours after tablet intake. The pharmacokinetics of rivaroxaban were not affected by drugs altering gastric pH. Coadministration of rivaroxaban tablets (30 mg single dose) with the H2-receptor antagonist ranitidine (150 mg twice daily), the antacid aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide (10 mL) or rivaroxaban tablets (20 mg single dose) with the PPI omeprazole (40 mg once daily) did not show an effect on the bioavailability and exposure of rivaroxaban (see Figure 3).  

Absorption of rivaroxaban is dependent on the site of drug release in the GI tract. A 29% and 56% decrease in AUC and Cmax compared to tablet was reported when rivaroxaban granulate is released in the proximal small intestine. Exposure is further reduced when drug is released in the distal small intestine, or ascending colon. Avoid administration of rivaroxaban distal to the stomach which can result in reduced absorption and related drug exposure.

In a study with 44 healthy subjects, both mean AUC and Cmax values for 20 mg rivaroxaban administered orally as a crushed tablet mixed in applesauce were comparable to that after the whole tablet. However, for the crushed tablet suspended in water and administered via an NG tube followed by a liquid meal, only mean AUC was comparable to that after the whole tablet, and Cmax was 18% lower.

Distribution

Protein binding of rivaroxaban in human plasma is approximately 92% to 95%, with albumin being the main binding component. The steady-state volume of distribution in healthy subjects is approximately 50 L.  

Metabolism

Approximately 51% of an orally administered [14C]-rivaroxaban dose was recovered as inactive metabolites in urine (30%) and feces (21%). Oxidative degradation catalyzed by CYP3A4/5 and CYP2J2 and hydrolysis are the major sites of biotransformation. Unchanged rivaroxaban was the predominant moiety in plasma with no major or active circulating metabolites.

Excretion

In a Phase 1 study, following the administration of [14C]-rivaroxaban, approximately one-third (36%) was recovered as unchanged drug in the urine and 7% was recovered as unchanged drug in feces. Unchanged drug is excreted into urine, mainly via active tubular secretion and to a lesser extent via glomerular filtration (approximate 5:1 ratio). Rivaroxaban is a substrate of the efflux transporter proteins P-gp and ABCG2 (also abbreviated BCRP). Rivaroxaban’s affinity for influx transporter proteins is unknown.   Rivaroxaban is a low-clearance drug, with a systemic clearance of approximately 10 L/hr in healthy volunteers following intravenous administration. The terminal elimination half-life of rivaroxaban is 5 to 9 hours in healthy subjects aged 20 to 45 years.

Specific Populations

The effects of level of renal impairment, age, body weight, and level of hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of rivaroxaban are summarized in Figure 2.

Figure 2: Effect of Specific Adult Populations on the Pharmacokinetics of Rivaroxaban

[See Dosage and Administration (2.1)]

Gender

Gender did not influence the pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics of rivaroxaban tablets.

Race

Healthy Japanese subjects were found to have 20 to 40% on average higher exposures compared to other ethnicities including Chinese. However, these differences in exposure are reduced when values are corrected for body weight.

Elderly

The terminal elimination half-life is 11 to 13 hours in the elderly subjects aged 60 to 76 years [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5)].

Pediatric Patients

The rate and extent of absorption were similar between the tablet and suspension. After repeated administration of rivaroxaban for the treatment of second another indication, the Cmax of rivaroxaban in plasma was observed at median times of 1.5 to 2.2 hours in subjects who ranged from birth to less than 18 years of age.

In children who were 6 months to 9 years of age, in vitro plasma protein binding of rivaroxaban is approximately 90%.

The half-life of rivaroxaban in plasma of pediatric patients treated for second another indication decreased with decreasing age. Mean half-life values were 4.2 hours in adolescents, 3 hours in children 2 to 12 years of age, 1.9 hours in children 0.5 to <2 years of age, and 1.6 hours in children <0.5 years of age.

An exploratory analysis in pediatric patients treated for second another indication did not reveal relevant differences in rivaroxaban exposure based on gender or race.

Renal Impairment

The safety and pharmacokinetics of single-dose rivaroxaban tablets (10 mg) were evaluated in a study in healthy subjects [CrCl ≥80 mL/min (n=8)] and in subjects with varying degrees of renal impairment (see Figure 2). Compared to healthy subjects with normal creatinine clearance, rivaroxaban exposure increased in subjects with renal impairment. Increases in pharmacodynamic effects were also observed [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

Hemodialysis in ESRD subjects: Systemic exposure to rivaroxaban administered as a single 15 mg dose in ESRD subjects dosed 3 hours after the completion of a 4-hour hemodialysis session (post-dialysis) is 56% higher when compared to subjects with normal renal function (see Table 18). The systemic exposure to rivaroxaban administered 2 hours prior to a 4-hour hemodialysis session with a dialysate flow rate of 600 mL/min and a blood flow rate in the range of 320 to 400 mL/min is 47% higher compared to those with normal renal function. The extent of the increase is similar to the increase in patients with CrCl 15 to 50 mL/min taking rivaroxaban tablets 15 mg. Hemodialysis had no significant impact on rivaroxaban exposure. Protein binding was similar (86% to 89%) in healthy controls and ESRD subjects in this study.

Pediatric Patients: Limited clinical data are available in children 1 year or older with moderate or severe renal impairment (eGFR <50 mL/min/1.73 m2) or in children younger than 1 year with serum creatinine results above 97.5th percentile [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

Hepatic Impairment

The safety and pharmacokinetics of single-dose rivaroxaban tablets (10 mg) were evaluated in a study in healthy adult subjects (n=16) and adult subjects with varying degrees of hepatic impairment (see Figure 2). No patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) were studied. Compared to healthy subjects with normal liver function, significant increases in rivaroxaban exposure were observed in subjects with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B) (see Figure 2). Increases in pharmacodynamic effects were also observed [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7)].

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

Drug Interactions

In vitro studies indicate that rivaroxaban neither inhibits the major cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP1A2, 2C8, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 2J2, and 3A nor induces CYP1A2, 2B6, 2C19, or 3A. In vitro data also indicates a low rivaroxaban inhibitory potential for P-gp and ABCG2 transporters.

The effects of coadministered drugs on the pharmacokinetics of rivaroxaban exposure are summarized in Figure 3 [see Drug Interactions (7)].

Figure 3: Effect of Coadministered Drugs on the Pharmacokinetics of Rivaroxaban in Adults

Anticoagulants

In a drug interaction study, single doses of enoxaparin (40 mg subcutaneous) and rivaroxaban tablets (10 mg) given concomitantly resulted in an additive effect on anti-factor Xa activity. In another study, single doses of warfarin (15 mg) and rivaroxaban tablets (5 mg) resulted in an additive effect on factor Xa inhibition and PT. Neither enoxaparin nor warfarin affected the pharmacokinetics of rivaroxaban (see Figure 3).

NSAIDs/Aspirin

In ROCKET AF, concomitant aspirin use (almost exclusively at a dose of 100 mg or less) during the double-blind phase was identified as an independent risk factor for major bleeding. NSAIDs are known to increase bleeding, and bleeding risk may be increased when NSAIDs are used concomitantly with rivaroxaban tablets. Neither naproxen nor aspirin affected the pharmacokinetics of rivaroxaban (see Figure 3).  

Clopidogrel

In two drug interaction studies where clopidogrel (300 mg loading dose followed by 75 mg daily maintenance dose) and rivaroxaban tablets (15 mg single dose) were coadministered in healthy subjects, an increase in bleeding time to 45 minutes was observed in approximately 45% and 30% of subjects in these studies, respectively. The change in bleeding time was approximately twice the maximum increase seen with either drug alone. There was no change in the pharmacokinetics of either drug.  

Drug-Disease Interactions with Drugs that Inhibit Cytochrome P450 3A Enzymes and Drug Transport Systems

In a pharmacokinetic trial, rivaroxaban tablets was administered as a single dose in subjects with mild (CrCl = 50 to 79 mL/min) or moderate renal impairment (CrCl = 30 to 49 mL/min) receiving multiple doses of erythromycin (a combined P-gp and moderate CYP3A inhibitor). Compared to rivaroxaban tablets administered alone in subjects with normal renal function (CrCl >80 mL/min), subjects with mild and moderate renal impairment concomitantly receiving erythromycin reported a 76% and 99% increase in AUCinf and a 56% and 64% increase in Cmax, respectively. Similar trends in pharmacodynamic effects were also observed.

12.6 QT/QTc Prolongation

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

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

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.

14.6 Reduction of Risk of Major Cardiovascular Events in Patients with CAD

The evidence for the efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban tablets 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 OutcoMes for People using Anticoagulation StrategieS 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, rivaroxaban 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 rivaroxaban group versus the placebo group. Compared to placebo, during 10,000 patient-years of treatment, rivaroxaban 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.

Table 26: Efficacy results from COMPASS CAD Population*

* intention to treat analysis set, primary analyses.

† Treatment schedule: Rivaroxaban 2.5 mg twice daily vs placebo. All patients received aspirin 100 mg once daily as background therapy.

‡ Rivaroxaban vs. placebo.

§ Coronary heart disease death: death due to acute MI, sudden cardiac death, or CV procedure.

¶ CV death includes CHD death, or death due to other CV causes or unknown death.

# Acute limb ischemia is defined as limb-threatening ischemia leading to an acute vascular intervention (i.e., pharmacologic, peripheral arterial surgery/reconstruction, peripheral angioplasty/stent, or amputation). CHD: coronary heart disease, CI: confidence interval; CV: cardiovascular; MI: myocardial infarction  

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. CI: confidence interval

14.7 Reduction of Risk of Major Thrombotic Vascular Events in Patients with PAD, Including Patients after Lower Extremity Revascularization due to Symptomatic PAD

The efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban tablets 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 rivaroxaban tablets 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 studY of ASA alonG 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 rivaroxaban tablets 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.

Rivaroxaban 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, rivaroxaban 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 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.

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

Table 27: Efficacy Results in VOYAGER (Intent-to-Treat Population) and COMPASS PAD

Efficacy endpoints in COMPASS PAD were analysed according to the pre-specified endpoints in VOYAGER when applicable.

* Rivaroxaban vs. placebo.

† Two-sided p-values

‡ Major thrombotic vascular event is the composite of MI, ischemic stroke, CV death, ALI, and major amputation of a vascular etiology.

§ Ischemic stroke for VOYAGER included stroke of uncertain/unknown etiology whereas COMPASS only included ischemic stroke.

¶ CV death includes Coronary Heart Disease death, or death due to other CV causes or sudden cardiac arrest and unknown death.

# Adjudicated events in VOYAGER and investigator reported events in COMPASS

Þ Secondary outcomes for VOYAGER were tested sequentially.

ß CHD death includes death due to sudden cardiac death, MI, or coronary revascularization procedure

à Unplanned index limb revascularization for recurrent limb ischemia was not captured in COMPASS study.

è Investigator reported in VOYAGER and adjudicated events in COMPASS

ALI=acute limb ischemia, CHD=coronary heart disease; CI=confidence interval, CV=cardiovascular; MI=myocardial infarction, VTE=venous thromboembolism.