What Is Eliquis?

Eliquis, also known by its generic name apixaban, is an anticoagulant medication used to reduce the risk of stroke and venous thromboembolism (VTE) in individuals with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. It is also used to prevent and treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism. Eliquis works by inhibiting the clotting of blood, which prevents blockages that can lead to strokes or blood clots in the veins and pulmonary arteries.

Eliquis is part of a class of drugs known as factor Xa inhibitors, which work by blocking a clotting enzyme in the body called factor Xa. By blocking this enzyme, Eliquis prevents the formation of clots in the brain, lungs, and other areas of the body. It is also used for prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) after hip or knee replacement surgery.

Eliquis has been approved by the FDA for the prevention of stroke and VTE in adults with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, the prevention of recurrent DVT and PE in adults, and an adjunct to hip or knee replacement surgery in adults. The most common side effects of Eliquis include bleeding, dizziness, headache, weakness, kidney problems, anemia, constipation, and nausea.

Safety and Side Effects of Eliquis

As with any medication, there is always a chance of side effects. Eliquis can increase the risk of bleeding, especially in patients with certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease or low platelet count. It is important to tell your doctor if you have any of these conditions before taking Eliquis, as they may need to adjust the dose or watch you more closely.

Eliquis also carries a risk of drug interactions, so always tell your doctor about all medications, supplements, and vitamins you are taking. Additionally, Eliquis can interact with certain foods, such as grapefruit, grapefruit juice, and star fruit. Be sure to avoid these if you are taking Eliquis.

How Eliquis Is Used

Eliquis is usually taken once a day, but it may be taken twice a day for DVT and PE prophylaxis. It is important to take Eliquis as prescribed and to never double up on a dose if you forget to take it. If it is almost time for the next dose, just skip the missed one and take the next one on time.

Eliquis also comes as a 5 mg tablet, so you can divide the tablet in half to get a 2.5 mg dose if it is needed. It should not be cut into more than two pieces; otherwise, the quality of the medication may be affected.

Conclusion

Eliquis is an anticoagulant drug used to reduce the risk of stroke and serious blood clots in individuals with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. It is also prescribed to treat and prevent deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in adults. However, Eliquis carries the risk of serious side effects and interactions with other drugs, so it is important to speak to your doctor before taking it. Following your doctor’s directions and avoiding certain foods while taking Eliquis can help to reduce the risk of unwanted side effects and ensure you get the most benefit from the drug.