Question: I am on Xarelto. What can I take for a headache?

Dr. Hibberd's answer:

Xarelto is a blood thinner that does not require weekly or monthly blood monitoring.

Regular use of aspirin and anti-inflammatories such as Aleve, Advil, and Naproxen with Xarelto is discouraged for fear of increased bleeding risks. You will need to discuss any anticipated use of painkillers with your personal physician to better understand your degree of elevated risk of bleeding.

There are plenty of other drugs available for headache and migraine control that should pose no problems when used while you are on Xarelto, including acetominophen (Tylenol), ultram, codeine, hydrocodone, and tricyclic agents.

But perhaps this is an ideal time to re-assess your need for medications, and perhaps consider preventive strategies (including changes in diet, sleep habits, stress management, biofeedback, and preventive medication regimens) so that your headaches can perhaps be cleared completely.

Remember that most people do not get headaches on a regular basis requiring medication, and the fact that you are concerned about this suggests to me that you have not embraced preventive strategies seriously yet.