Rivaroxaban, a New Molecule with Potential to Balance Bleeding Risk and Ischemic Events in Patients with Chronic Coronary Syndrome

Globally, the prevalence of chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) increases with age. In India, there is a rapidly growing burden of coronary artery disease (CAD), which has become the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Despite recommended medical therapy, patients with CCS are still at risk of ischemic events. Currently, dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) is recommended in the form of aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor or low dose rivaroxaban in patients with stable CAD and/or peripheral artery disease (PAD). A low dose of rivaroxaban in combination with aspirin is a promising approach; however, for patients who might benefit the most, it still remains a challenge. Clinical trial data on this new drug was certainly very encouraging, with evidence from the COMPASS trial and prespecified subgroups of COMPASS trials suggesting that the addition of rivaroxaban to aspirin was associated with a significantly lower risk of ischemic events, mortality, and tolerable bleeding profile in patients with CCS and high-risk factors. This combination is cost-effective and generally well tolerated in patients with CAD and/or PAD, as well as patients with CCS and multimorbidity or high-risk populations.