Eliquis (apixaban) is an oral anticoagulant in a class called direct factor Xa inhibitors. It reduces the activity of factor Xa, a protein that plays a central role in blood clot formation, which can lower the risk of stroke, systemic embolism, and venous thromboembolism in patients with relevant medical indications. Dosing is individualized based on the patient's condition, age, kidney function, other medicines, and bleeding risk.
Eliquis is a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC). Unlike antiplatelet medicines such as clopidogrel, which act on platelets, apixaban works through the coagulation system by blocking factor Xa. The dose and duration of treatment depend on what is being treated and the patient's clinical circumstances.
A healthcare professional may prescribe Eliquis for: Reducing stroke and systemic embolism risk in adults with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation Preventing DVT after hip or knee replacement surgery Treating DVT or PE Reducing the risk of recurrent DVT and PE after initial treatment Treating venous thromboembolism and reducing recurrent VTE risk in eligible pediatric patients, per applicable labeling
Apixaban selectively blocks factor Xa, an enzyme that converts prothrombin to thrombin. Thrombin drives fibrin production, which holds blood clots together. Blocking factor Xa reduces thrombin generation and limits clot development.
The correct dose depends on the condition being treated. Atrial fibrillation: The standard dose for most adults with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation is 5 mg twice daily. A reduced dose of 2.5 mg twice daily is used for patients with at least two of the following characteristics: age 80 or older, body weight 60 kg or less, or serum creatinine of 1.5 mg/dL or higher. Treatment of DVT and PE: 10 mg twice daily for the first 7 days, then 5 mg twice daily. Prevention of recurrent DVT and PE: 2.5 mg twice daily following initial treatment. General instructions: Take exactly as prescribed, at roughly the same times each day Do not change the dose or stop treatment without medical advice, particularly while anticoagulation is still required If a dose is missed, follow the product-specific instructions or contact a pharmacist These dosing details reflect the labeled regimen. The prescribing clinician determines the correct regimen for each patient.
Serious bleeding: Eliquis can cause serious, sometimes life-threatening bleeding. Get emergency care promptly for any of the following: Unusual or prolonged bleeding Blood in urine Black or bloody stools Vomiting blood or material resembling coffee grounds Severe or unexplained bruising Sudden severe headache or weakness Do not stop without medical advice: Stopping Eliquis early, without a suitable alternative anticoagulant in place, can increase the risk of blood clots. Talk to a healthcare professional before discontinuing. Surgery and spinal procedures: Specific precautions are required before surgery, spinal procedures, or spinal or epidural anesthesia, because of bleeding risk and the risk of spinal or epidural hematoma. Tell every healthcare professional involved in your care that you take apixaban. Drug interactions: Certain medicines can affect apixaban levels or raise bleeding risk. These include strong combined P-gp and CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers, other anticoagulants, antiplatelet medicines, and NSAIDs. A clinician or pharmacist should review all current medicines before treatment starts. Contraindications: Eliquis is contraindicated in patients with active pathological bleeding or severe hypersensitivity to apixaban. Additional restrictions apply for patients with prosthetic heart valves, severe hepatic impairment, and triple-positive antiphospholipid syndrome. Common Side Effects Bleeding-related reactions are the most commonly reported adverse effects in adult clinical trials. These may include: Easy bruising Nosebleeds Prolonged bleeding from minor cuts or wounds Bleeding gums Anemia from blood loss How likely and how serious these are depends on dose, overall health, other medicines, and the underlying condition. Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, signs of internal bleeding, sudden neurological symptoms, or other serious reactions.
Store as directed on the product packaging and labeling. Keep in the original container, away from heat and moisture, and out of reach of children.
Eliquis is prescribed for several clot-related conditions: reducing stroke risk in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, treating DVT and PE, preventing recurrent DVT and PE, and preventing DVT after certain hip or knee surgeries.
Apixaban, a direct factor Xa inhibitor.
People use that term, but Eliquis is technically an anticoagulant. It reduces clot formation by blocking factor Xa rather than literally thinning the blood.
2.5 mg and 5 mg tablets under the referenced U.S. prescribing information. Other formulations may differ.
Yes, and the risk can be serious. Get medical attention for unusual, severe, or persistent bleeding.
No. Stopping early raises the risk of blood clots and related complications. Talk to your prescriber before making any changes.
Taking aspirin or other antiplatelet medicines alongside Eliquis increases bleeding risk. Some patients are prescribed both for a specific clinical reason, but only under medical supervision.
Yes, always. Inform your dentist, surgeon, anesthesiologist, and any other healthcare professional before any procedure. Do not adjust or stop the medicine on your own beforehand.
Unlike warfarin, Eliquis is not routinely monitored with INR. Your healthcare professional may order other tests depending on your condition, kidney function, and treatment needs.
Follow the missed-dose instructions that came with your prescription. If you are unsure, contact your pharmacist or healthcare professional. Do not take an extra dose to compensate unless specifically told to.