What Is Eliquis (Apixaban)?
Eliquis (apixaban) is a medication that belongs to a class of medications called direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), also known as direct-acting oral antithrombotics (DOATs). It is used:
- To reduce the risk of stroke and blood clots in people with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (a heart condition that causes an irregular heartbeat)
- To prevent blood clots in people who have had knee or hip replacement surgery
- To treat blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis or DVT) and lungs (pulmonary embolism or PE)
- To reduce the risk of blood clots in people with a medical condition called antiphospholipid syndrome
How Eliquis works:
Eliquis works by blocking the action of certain clotting factors in the blood, such as factor Xa, which play a role in the formation of blood clots. By blocking these factors, Eliquis can help prevent the formation of new blood clots and reduce the risk of stroke and other blood clot-related complications.
How Eliquis is taken:
- Eliquis is usually taken twice daily by mouth in the form of oral tablets.
- The specific dosage of Eliquis and the duration of treatment depend on the individual's condition and should be determined by a healthcare professional.
- It is important to take Eliquis exactly as prescribed and not to skip or double the dose, as this could increase the risk of side effects or reduce the medication's effectiveness.
- Eliquis should be taken with or without food.
Side effects:
Like any medication, Eliquis can have side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Some common side effects of Eliquis include:
- Bleeding or bruising more easily
- Nosebleeds
- Gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain
- Muscle or joint pain
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Back pain
- Fatigue
- Rash
It is important to promptly report any significant or concerning side effects to a healthcare professional, especially if you experience any unusual or unexplained bleeding.
Precautions and considerations:
- Eliquis is not recommended for people with certain medical conditions, including active major bleeding, severe liver disease, or known hypersensitivity to Eliquis or similar medications.
- It's important to inform a healthcare professional about all other medical conditions, allergies, and medications (including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements) before starting treatment with Eliquis to avoid any potential interactions or complications.
- Some medications, such as certain antibiotics, antifungal drugs, and antiplatelet agents, can interact with Eliquis and affect its effectiveness. Therefore, it's crucial to discuss all current medications with a healthcare provider before starting Eliquis.
- Regular monitoring of blood clotting time (international normalized ratio, or INR) is usually not required for people taking Eliquis, as it has predictable effects on blood clotting.
Eliquis is an important medication for reducing the risk of blood clots in various conditions, but it should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. It's essential to follow the prescribed dosing instructions, monitor for any side effects, and consult with a healthcare provider for any concerns or questions related to Eliquis.