Real-world study of Xarelto finds efficacy and cost saving in atrial fibrillation

The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson announced results of a new real-world study, which found newly diagnosed patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) taking Xarelto (rivaroxaban) experienced significantly fewer strokes, significantly fewer severe strokes and fewer stroke-related deaths compared to those taking warfarin.

The study found Xarelto significantly reduced overall strokes (across all severities) by 18 percent compared to warfarin (p=0.0005) and reduced the risk of experiencing the most severe strokes (NIHSS Score 16-42) by 47 percent (p=0.0059), moderate stroke by five percent (p=0.5178) and minor stroke by 18 percent (p=0.0240). Also, across the entire study population, Xarelto significantly reduced the risk of post-stroke mortality at 30 days by 59 percent (p<0.0001) and at any time by 22 percent (p=0.0248).

In additional to clinical benefit, recent real-world data has demonstrated the economic impact of Xarelto. Findings recently presented at the 2019 International Stroke Conference (ISC) showed a favorable long-term cost benefit with Xarelto over warfarin in patients with NVAF. While total cost of care for stroke prevention was similar for both groups, post-stroke cost was 21 percent lower for those taking Xarelto. Of those who experienced a less severe stroke, total health care costs were 40 percent lower for those taking Xarelto. These results were presented at the American College of Cardiology's 68th Annual Scientific Session.