The FDA approved rivaroxaban for the prevention of venous thromboembolism among acutely ill hospitalized patients who are at risk for blood clots but not at high risk for bleeding, according to a press release from the agent’s manufacturer.

The approval indicates rivaroxaban (Xarelto, Janssen) — a direct oral anticoagulant — can be initiated for these patients during hospitalization and continued after discharge for a total duration of 31 to 39 days.