Development of rivaroxaban microemulsion-based hydrogel for transdermal treatment and prevention of venous thromboembolism

•Novel microemulsion-based hydrogel containing rivaroxaban (PME-1b) was developed.•PME-1b presented good release profile, stability and pH compatible with the skin.•Drug amount permeated through skin showed relevant anticoagulant activity in vitro.•The in silico prediction showed the viability of PME-1b transdermal administration.•PME-1b can be administered by the transdermal route to treat venous thromboembolism.