Rivaroxaban is classified as which type of anticoagulant?

Rivaroxaban is classified as a Factor Xa inhibitor because it specifically targets and inhibits Factor Xa in the coagulation cascade. By inhibiting this factor, rivaroxaban effectively reduces the ability of thrombin to convert fibrinogen to fibrin, thereby preventing the formation of blood clots. This mechanism makes it distinct from other types of anticoagulants.

Vitamin K antagonists, like warfarin, interfere with vitamin K-dependent clotting factors and have a different mechanism of action. Direct thrombin inhibitors act directly on thrombin rather than Factor Xa, while platelet aggregators are agents that inhibit platelet activation and aggregation, which is not the primary action of rivaroxaban. Therefore, the classification as a Factor Xa inhibitor accurately reflects the drug's pharmacological activity and therapeutic use in managing conditions such as venous thromboembolism and atrial fibrillation.