If you’ve been prescribed a blood thinner, chances are you’ve heard the name apixaban. It’s the active ingredient in the brand name Eliquis and a popular choice for preventing clots in the heart and lungs. This guide breaks down the drug list, how it works, common dosages, side effects, and a few alternatives you might consider.
Apixaban belongs to a class called direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). Unlike older drugs such as warfarin, it doesn’t require regular blood tests to keep the dose in check. It works by blocking a protein called Factor Xa, which the body needs to form clots. Doctors usually prescribe it for atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat), deep‑vein thrombosis (DVT), and after certain surgeries to keep clots from forming.
The most widely known brand is Eliquis, but you’ll also see apixaban sold as a generic pill in many pharmacies. The standard dose for most adults is 5 mg taken twice a day. If you have kidney issues, are over 80, or weigh less than 60 kg, the dose may drop to 2.5 mg twice daily. Always follow your doctor’s instructions – skipping a dose or taking an extra one can raise the risk of bleeding.
Typical side effects include easy bruising, nosebleeds, or minor stomach upset. Serious bleeding, especially in the brain or gut, is rare but can happen. If you notice any unusual bleeding, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Because apixaban clears from the body fairly quickly, doctors often advise stopping it a few days before surgery. If you need to reverse its effect urgently, a medication called andexanet alfa is available, though it’s used only in hospitals.
Not everyone can take apixaban. Some people have allergies, severe liver disease, or interactions with other meds. In those cases, doctors might suggest other DOACs like rivaroxaban (Xarelto) or dabigatran (Pradaxa). For patients who need tighter monitoring, the older warfarin (Coumadin) is still an option, but it requires frequent blood tests.
When switching, never stop one anticoagulant before starting another without talking to your doctor. Overlap periods are common to keep you protected while the new drug takes effect.
This tag page pulls together all articles that mention apixaban, its brand names, dosage guides, safety tips, and related drugs. Click on any post title to read a deeper dive – whether you’re looking for a side‑effect rundown, a comparison with other blood thinners, or a patient‑friendly FAQ.
Keep this page bookmarked. As new research and guidelines appear, we’ll add fresh content so you always have up‑to‑date information about apixaban and its alternatives.
Got questions that aren’t covered here? Use our contact form or drop a comment on any article. We aim to make the science behind blood thinners simple, useful, and easy to act on.
Learn how to spot, avoid, and manage drug interactions with apixaban. Practical tips, real‑world examples, and a handy comparison table keep you safe on your blood thinner.
Detail
