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Can the FDA-approved drug Xarelto be used to treat Deep Vein Thrombosis?

high confidence  ·  Last reviewed May 18, 2026

Xarelto (rivaroxaban) is a blood thinner that works by blocking a clotting protein called factor Xa. The FDA has approved Xarelto for several uses, including the treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), as well as for reducing the risk of these conditions coming back. This means that doctors can prescribe Xarelto to treat an existing DVT and to help prevent new clots from forming.

What the research says

According to the FDA-approved prescribing information, Xarelto is indicated for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), and for the reduction in the risk of recurrence of DVT or PE 5. This approval is based on clinical trials that showed Xarelto is effective and safe for these uses. Studies have also evaluated how well Xarelto is prescribed in real-world hospitals. One study found that about 12.4% of patients treated for venous thromboembolism (VTE, which includes DVT and PE) were on an inappropriate dose of rivaroxaban, highlighting the importance of correct dosing 7. Another study reported that 14% of rivaroxaban prescriptions for VTE did not meet FDA-recommended dosing, with lower-than-recommended doses being more common than higher doses 8. These findings underscore that while Xarelto is approved for DVT treatment, proper dosing based on kidney function and other factors is critical. Additionally, research has explored strategies for reversing the effects of rivaroxaban in case of bleeding emergencies, though no specific antidote was approved at the time of those studies 6.

What to ask your doctor

  • Is Xarelto the right blood thinner for my DVT, considering my kidney function and other health conditions?
  • What dose of Xarelto should I take, and how long will I need treatment?
  • What should I do if I miss a dose or accidentally take too much?
  • Are there any medications or supplements I should avoid while taking Xarelto?
  • What signs of bleeding should I watch for, and when should I seek emergency care?

This question is drawn from common patient questions about Hematology and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.