In the past several months, concerns over the risks and safety of Xarelto – a popular prescription blood thinner – have been on the rise. In many cases, patients who took Xarelto have reported incidents of severe and uncontrollable bleeding, some serious enough to require hospitalization. A number of injuries and deaths have been associated with the drug. Despite the increase in adverse events reported by consumers, researchers recently found that Xarelto prescriptions are rising.

According to a recent study from the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP), researchers have discovered that more physicians are choosing to prescribe Xarelto (rivaroxaban) over Pradaxa (dabigatran), another blood thinner which has been found to carry potentially harmful side effects.

The study noted that Xarelto prescriptions increased to roughly 1 million per quarter, with Pradaxa prescriptions declining since 2012. At the end of 2013, Xarelto prescriptions surpassed those for Pradaxa by approximately two to one. Although they have not yet informed doctors how to prevent or stop cases of uncontrollable bleeding, Xarelto’s manufacturers are exploring the possibility of expanding the drug’s use to treat patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS)

Although Bayer and Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen Unit has profited immensely from Xarelto, the companies’ medication has led to many cases of injury and death. In turn, many victims and families have begun to assert their rights and pursue compensation for their damages by filing lawsuits.

You can learn more about Xarelto lawsuits on our website or by requesting a free consultation with a member of our legal team.