Eliquis (Apixaban)

Apixaban General Information

Eliquis (Apixaban) is indicated for use to prevent blood clots from forming due to atrial fibrillation. It may also be used after knee or hip replacement surgery. With atrial fibrillation, part of the heart that doesn’t beat the way it should. This may lead to other parts of your body such as the lungs or legs. It may also increase your risk of stroke.

In the United States, this medication is also approved to treat deep vein thrombosis – DVT and pulmonary embolus-PE. It is also a certain type of blood clots. This drug may also prevent them from forming again. 

How does Eliquis (Apixaban) work?

Eliquis (Apixaban) works by blocking Factor Xa. It is a blood clotting factor critical to the blood clotting process. By blocking Factor Xa, this medication lowers the chance of blood clots forming. This will also decrease the risk of having a stroke in people with atrial fibrillation. 

Why use Eliquis (Apixaban)?

Eliquis (Apixaban) is a factor Xa (FXa) inhibitor. This product has Apixaban an active ingredient that is a white to pale yellow powder. This is supplied as tablets for oral use with the strengths of 2.5mg and 5mg. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved this medication. 

How to use Eliquis (Apixaban)?

Eliquis (Apixaban) is to be taken by mouth with a full glass of water. It is usually taken twice a day every 12 hours. If you cannot swallow that tablet whole, you may crush it and mix it with water or apple juice.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to the treatment. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Use this regularly to get the most benefit from it. 

What are the side-effects of Eliquis (Apixaban)?

  • Skin rash
  • Nausea
  • Anemia
  • Fainting

Call for medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Hives
  • Swelling of your face, throat, lips, or tongue

Call your doctor right away if these happen:

  • Heavy menstrual period
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Urine that looks red, brown, or pink
  • Easy bruising

Warnings and Precautions

  • Inform your doctor if you have any allergies or current medications/treatments. Tell also to your doctor if you have a medical history especially of kidney or liver disease and bleeding problems.
  • Limit alcoholic beverages. This may cause stomach bleeding.
  • This is not recommended for pregnant women. If you are breastfeeding women, consult your doctor first.
  • Keep this away from the reach of children.