Can I take Lansoprazole and Rivaroxaban together?

Why this happens

Lansoprazole reduces stomach acid, but this does not significantly change how rivaroxaban is absorbed into the body. Additionally, the two drugs are processed by different pathways in the liver, so they do not interfere with each other's levels in the bloodstream.

What you should do

You can continue to take both medications as prescribed by your doctor. No special precautions or dose changes are usually required. However, always inform your healthcare provider if you notice any unusual bruising or bleeding while taking an anticoagulant like rivaroxaban.

Important precautions

Bleeding risk- rivaroxaban

You must seek immediate medical attention if you experience a serious fall or head injury, even if you feel fine, as you are at high risk of internal bleeding. Always carry your anticoagulant alert card.

Surgery or dental work

You must inform your surgeon or dentist that you are taking rivaroxaban before any procedure, as it may need to be stopped temporarily to prevent dangerous bleeding.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Rivaroxaban must not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding as it may cause serious bleeding in the fetus or baby.

Severe diarrhoea

Lansoprazole can increase your risk of serious bowel infections. If you develop severe or persistent watery diarrhoea, or a fever, contact your doctor immediately and do not take anti-diarrhoeal medicine.

Lupus (SLE) or skin reactions

Contact your doctor if you develop a skin rash, especially in areas exposed to the sun, as lansoprazole can cause a rare but serious autoimmune skin reaction.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking these medicines. Alcohol can increase the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding, which is a particular concern when taking an anticoagulant like rivaroxaban or a medicine for stomach acid like lansoprazole.

Food (Timing)

Lansoprazole works best if you take it at least 30 minutes before food. Taking it with or after food can make it less effective at reducing stomach acid.

You must take the 15mg or 20mg rivaroxaban tablets with food. This helps your body absorb the medicine properly so it can work effectively. The 2.5mg and 10mg tablets can be taken with or without food.

Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks)

Lansoprazole is often prescribed for acid reflux. Caffeine can trigger or worsen reflux symptoms by relaxing the muscle at the base of the food pipe, which may make your medicine less effective at managing your symptoms.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.