Prescription required. May be split. Product of Turkey. Shipped from Mauritius.
Prescription required. May be split. Product of India. Shipped from Mauritius.
Prescription required. May be split. Product of India. Shipped from Mauritius.
Welcome to this comprehensive guide to Eliquis - also commonly referred to as Apixiban in its generic form. Eliquis is a medication commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots. In this article, we will provide essential information on the drug's uses, dosage, and potential side effects. Eliquis is particularly beneficial for individuals with atrial fibrillation or those who have undergone hip/knee replacement surgery. We will also discuss the mechanism of action, proper usage instructions, precautions, and potential drug interactions. We aim to equip healthcare professionals and individuals taking Eliquis with the knowledge to make informed decisions about its use.
Eliquis is used to prevent blood clots due to atrial fibrillation or after hip/knee replacement surgery.
Eliquis works by blocking certain clotting proteins in the blood.
Common side effects of Eliquis may include nausea, easy bruising, and minor bleeding.
Serious bleeding can occur, and medical help should be sought for signs such as nosebleeds, unusual tiredness, and prolonged bleeding.
To comply with Canadian International Pharmacy Association regulations you are permitted to order a 3-month supply or the closest package size available based on your personal prescription. read more
Eliquis is a medication that is primarily used for the prevention of blood clots and their recurrence in various medical conditions. It is commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots due to atrial fibrillation or after hip/knee replacement surgery. Additionally, Eliquis is approved to treat certain types of blood clots and prevent them from forming again. The mechanism of action of Eliquis involves blocking certain clotting proteins in the blood, making it less likely for blood clots to form.
To use Eliquis, it is important to read the Medication Guide and Patient Information Leaflet provided by the pharmacist. The medication is taken orally, with or without food, usually twice daily. If the tablet is difficult to swallow, it can be crushed and mixed with water, apple juice, or applesauce. The dosage of Eliquis is determined based on various factors, such as the individual's medical condition, age, weight, kidney function, and other medications they may be taking. It is crucial to take Eliquis regularly at the same times each day and order refills early to ensure consistent use.
While Eliquis is generally well-tolerated, there are potential side effects to be aware of. Common side effects may include nausea, easy bruising, and minor bleeding. However, serious bleeding can occur, and medical help should be sought if signs such as nosebleeds, unusual tiredness, or prolonged bleeding are experienced. Rare but serious allergic reactions may also occur, and medical attention should be sought if symptoms such as rash and severe dizziness occur.
It is important to exercise precautions when taking Eliquis. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies you may have, and discuss your medical history, especially if you suffer from liver or kidney disease, experience bleeding problems, or have had any recent major injury or surgery. Eliquis should not be taken before undergoing surgery or medical/dental procedures, as advised by the doctor. Limiting alcohol consumption is recommended to reduce the risk of stomach bleeding, and caution should be exercised to avoid cuts or other causes of bleeding. Contact sports should also be avoided.
Eliquis can interact with various medications, including Mifepristone, antiplatelet drugs, NSAIDs, blood thinners, and certain antidepressants. Other medications that can impact the effectiveness of Eliquis include certain antifungals, HIV protease inhibitors, rifamycins, St. John's wort, and drugs used to treat seizures. Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding when used with Eliquis, but if low-dose Aspirin is prescribed for heart attack or stroke prevention, it should be continued unless instructed otherwise.
In case of Eliquis overdose with serious symptoms like passing out or trouble breathing, emergency medical assistance should be sought. Symptoms of overdose may include bloody/black/tarry stools, pink/dark urine, and unusual/prolonged bleeding. Eliquis should not be shared with others, and it is important to keep all medical and lab appointments while taking the medication. If a dose of Eliquis is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is close to the time of the next dose. Eliquis should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture, and should not be stored in the bathroom due to elevated humity. If the tablet is crushed and mixed with a liquid, the mixture should be used within 4 hours.
To ensure proper use of Eliquis, it is important to follow prescribed guidelines. Before starting treatment, it is recommended to read the Medication Guide and Patient Information Leaflet provided by the pharmacist. Eliquis is taken orally, with or without food, usually twice daily. If you have difficulty swallowing the tablet whole, it can be crushed and mixed with water, apple juice, or applesauce. The dosage of Eliquis is determined by various factors such as your medical condition, age, weight, kidney function, and other medications you may be taking. It is important to use Eliquis regularly at the same times each day and to order refills early to avoid running out of medication.
Proper use of Eliquis is crucial for its effectiveness and safety. It is important to follow the prescribed guidelines and to not stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor. By adhering to the recommended dosage and administration instructions, you can help reduce the risk of blood clots and their associated complications.
Now let's move on to the next section, where we will discuss the potential side effects and precautions associated with the use of Eliquis.
The potential side effects and precautions associated with the use of Eliquis should be carefully considered. Common side effects of Eliquis may include nausea, easy bruising, and minor bleeding. However, serious bleeding can occur, and medical help should be sought for signs such as nosebleeds, unusual tiredness, and prolonged bleeding. In some cases, very serious bleeding can cause vision changes, confusion, and weakness on one side of the body. While rare, serious allergic reactions may also occur, and medical help should be sought for symptoms such as rash and severe dizziness.
It is important to note that Eliquis can interact with various medications, so it is crucial to inform the doctor about all current medications being taken. Overall, by being aware of the potential side effects and taking the necessary precautions, individuals can safely use Eliquis to manage their condition.
When taking Eliquis, it is crucial to be aware of potential drug interactions to ensure safe and effective use of the medication. Drug interactions can occur when Eliquis is taken with certain medications, which can affect how the drug works in the body, or which can increase the risk of side effects. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Some medications that may interact with Eliquis include Mifepristone, antiplatelet drugs (such as Clopidogrel), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), blood thinners (such as Warfarin), and certain antidepressants. Other medications that can interact negatively with Eliquis include certain antifungals, HIV protease inhibitors, rifamycins, and drugs used to treat seizures.
It is important to note that low-dose Aspirin may be prescribed for heart attack or stroke prevention in some individuals. If you are taking Eliquis and are prescribed low-dose Aspirin, it is essential to follow your healthcare provider's instructions.
To ensure the safe and effective use of Eliquis, always discuss any potential drug interactions with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on how to manage these interactions and adjust your medication regimen if necessary. Remember to never start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without consulting your healthcare provider first.
If an overdose of Eliquis is suspected and serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing occur, emergency medical assistance should be sought by calling 911. For less severe cases, a poison control center should be contacted. Symptoms of overdose may include bloody, black, or tarry stools, pink or dark urine, and unusual or prolonged bleeding. It is important to note that Eliquis should not be shared with others.
To ensure the effectiveness and safety of Eliquis, patients must follow their doctor's advice, as well as becoming familiar with the drug's information sheet - often referred to as a monogram. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible after the scheduled time, unless it is close to the time of the next dose. Proper storage of Eliquis is also essential, and it should be kept at room temperature, away from light and moisture. It should not be stored in the bathroom due to humidity which often builds up due to showering or bathing. If the tablet is crushed and mixed with a liquid, the mixture should be consumed within four hours. Expired or portions which are no longer needed should be properly discarded - your pharmacist or local waste disposal company can offer advise as to the proper disposal method.
Eliquis is utilized to prevent and treat various conditions related to blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AFib). It is used to treat and prevent clots that can block blood vessels, as well as to prevent blood clots and strokes in patients with nonvalvular AFib. Eliquis is also used to treat DVT and PE and to prevent their recurrence. Clinical studies have shown that Eliquis is more effective than Warfarin and Aspirin in preventing blood clots and strokes (Study 1, Study 2). It stops blood clots from getting bigger, allows the body to break down and clear the clot, and stops new blood clots from forming. Additionally, Eliquis is used after previous treatments with other anticoagulants, and clinical studies have shown lower rates of DVT and deaths with Eliquis. This highlights the effectiveness of Eliquis in preventing and treating conditions related to blood clots. As we delve further into the topic, we will explore how Eliquis functions as a blood thinner.
As a blood thinner, Eliquis - also known as Apixaban - is specifically designed to make blood less likely to form clots, thereby reducing the risk of dangerous blood clots and their associated complications. It is approved by the FDA for use as a blood thinner and is commonly used to prevent blood clots due to atrial fibrillation or after hip/knee replacement surgery. Eliquis works by blocking certain clotting proteins in the blood, preventing the formation of clots that can block blood vessels and cause serious health problems such as strokes and pulmonary embolisms.
By reducing the likelihood of clot formation, Eliquis helps to maintain healthy blood flow throughout the body, preventing blockages and reducing the risk of life-threatening clot-related conditions. It is considered more effective than other blood thinners such as Warfarin and Aspirin in preventing blood clots and strokes. Eliquis is widely used and has been shown in clinical studies to have lower rates of blood clots, strokes, and deaths compared to other anticoagulants.
While Eliquis is generally safe and well-tolerated, it is important to be aware of potential side effects, including mild bleeding, nausea, and anemia. Serious side effects, such as allergic reactions and serious bleeding, can occur but are rare. Close monitoring and regular communication with healthcare professionals are recommended to ensure that the benefits of Eliquis as a blood thinner outweigh any potential risks.
The potential side effects of Eliquis, a blood thinner medication, should be carefully considered and monitored during treatment. While most side effects of Eliquis are mild, such as bruising more easily than usual, mild bleeding, and nausea, there are also more serious side effects that can occur. These include allergic reactions, serious bleeding, and an increased risk for blood clots if treatment is stopped early. It is important to be aware of these potential side effects and seek medical help if any unusual symptoms occur.
One important consideration regarding side effects is their occurrence in older adults. There are no major differences in side effects between older and younger adults who take Eliquis. However, close monitoring is recommended for all age groups to ensure the medication is well-tolerated and to promptly address any potential side effects.
Understanding the potential side effects of Eliquis is essential for both healthcare providers and patients. By being aware of these side effects and closely monitoring their occurrence, healthcare providers can ensure the safe and effective use of Eliquis in their patients. In the subsequent section, we will further explore the side effects of Eliquis and their specific details.
Some of the common side effects of Eliquis include nausea, susceptibility to bruising, and minor bleeding. These side effects are generally mild and do not pose a significant risk to older adults. However, it is important to seek medical help if any signs of serious bleeding, such as nosebleeds, unusual tiredness, or prolonged bleeding occur.
It is also worth mentioning that Eliquis can increase the risk of bleeding, which is a serious side effect. It is important for older adults and their caregivers to be vigilant and seek medical help if any signs of serious bleeding, vision changes, confusion, or weakness on one side of the body are experienced. Overall, Eliquis can be safely used in older adults, but close monitoring and prompt medical attention should be sought if side effects manifest.
Prescribing Eliquis has been proven to be effective for preventing blood clots, but it is important to be aware of the implications and precautions when considering the premature discontinuation of the medication. Stopping Eliquis without the approval of a doctor can increase the risk of blood clots and stroke. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your drug treatment regimen.
In certain situations, such as before surgery or medical/dental procedures, it may be necessary to temporarily stop taking Eliquis. However, this decision should be made in consultation with a doctor, who will provide guidance on when to stop and restart the medication. It is important to follow the doctor's instructions to minimize the risk of blood clots during the period when Eliquis is not being taken.
Abruptly stopping Eliquis can have serious consequences, so consulting your doctor prior to cessation is vitally important. The doctor will provide personalized advice, to determine the best course of action based on an individual's circumstance. Remember, the ultimate goal is to ensure the continued prevention of blood clots and strokes while taking into account any necessary interruptions in Eliquis treatment.
Discussing the potential side effects and risks is important when considering the use of Eliquis. While Eliquis is generally well-tolerated, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects that may occur. Common side effects of Eliquis include nausea, bruising, and minor bleeding. However, serious bleeding can occur, and medical help should be sought if signs such as nosebleeds, unusual tiredness, or prolonged bleeding are experienced. In rare cases, serious allergic reactions may occur, and medical help should be sought if symptoms like rash and severe dizziness are present. It is also important to inform the doctor or pharmacist of any allergies or medical history of liver/kidney disease, bleeding problems, or recent major injury/surgery. Precautions should be taken before surgery or medical/dental procedures, as advised by the doctor. Limiting alcohol consumption is recommended to reduce the risk of stomach bleeding. Caution should be exercised with sharp objects, and contact sports should be avoided to prevent heavy bleeding. It is crucial to be aware of these potential side effects and risks in order to make an informed decision about the use of Eliquis.
In the case of an overdose of Eliquis, immediate medical attention should be sought to address potential complications and provide appropriate treatment. An overdose of Eliquis can lead to serious bleeding, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms of an overdose may include bloody or black stools, pink or dark urine, and unusual or prolonged bleeding. It is important to note that Eliquis should not be shared with others, as the dosage is specific to each individual based on various factors such as medical condition, age, weight, kidney function, and other medications. In the event of an overdose, healthcare professionals will take measures to stop the bleeding and restore normal blood clotting function. This may include administering specific medications to counteract the effects of Eliquis and providing blood transfusions if necessary. Close monitoring and follow-up care will be required to ensure the patient's safety and to prevent any further complications. It is crucial to adhere to the prescribed dosage of Eliquis and to seek medical help immediately if an overdose is suspected.
Eliquis does not commonly induce joint pain in patients, and joint pain is not listed as a common side effect of Eliquis. However, it is important to note that every individual may react differently to medications, and some patients may experience joint pain while taking Eliquis. If joint pain occurs while taking Eliquis, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.
While joint pain is not commonly associated with Eliquis, it is important to communicate any new or worsening symptoms to the healthcare provider. They will be able to assess the situation and determine the best course of action.
Continuing the examination of Eliquis, it is important to consider the appropriate dosage and precautions associated with its use. The dosage of Eliquis depends on the reason for its use and other medications being taken. It is available in two strengths: 2.5 mg and 5 mg. For treating deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), the initial dosage can be 10 mg twice a day for 7 days, followed by 5 mg twice a day. To prevent DVT and PE recurrence, the dosage may be set at 2.5 mg twice a day. The dosage for preventing DVT after hip or knee replacement surgery varies but is typically 2.5 mg twice a day for a specific duration.
Precautions should be taken when using Eliquis. Stopping the medication without a doctor's approval can increase the risk of blood clots and stroke. Spinal procedures while on Eliquis can lead to spinal or epidural hematoma. Certain factors, such as previous spinal surgery or the use of other blood thinners, can increase the risk of blood clots with Eliquis. Older adults may require lower dosages of Eliquis for nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. Missed doses should be taken as soon as possible without doubling up on doses.
As we move forward, it is essential to compare Eliquis to Xarelto to gain a comprehensive understanding of these blood thinners and their respective benefits and precautions.
When comparing Eliquis and Xarelto, it is important to consider their similarities and differences in terms of effectiveness and safety. Both medications belong to a class of drugs known as direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) and are used to prevent blood clots. They work by inhibiting specific clotting proteins in the blood, reducing the risk of clot formation.
In terms of effectiveness, clinical studies have shown that both Eliquis and Xarelto are more effective than Warfarin and Aspirin in preventing blood clots and strokes. They have also been shown to lower the rates of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and deaths in patients.
When it comes to safety, both medications carry a risk of bleeding as a side effect. However, although serious bleeding events are rare, they do require immediate medical attention. Eliquis has a boxed warning for the risk of major bleeding, while Xarelto has a boxed warning for the increased risk of blood clots if treatment is stopped early.
Currently, a generic version of Eliquis called apixaban has been approved by the FDA. However, the availability of the generic version may vary. It is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist to determine if the generic version is available and suitable for your needs.
In terms of alternatives, there are other medications that can be used instead of Eliquis for the prevention of blood clots. These alternatives include Warfarin, Rivaroxaban, and Dabigatran. Each alternative has its own benefits and risks, and the choice of medication will depend on various factors such as the individual's medical condition, other medications they may be taking, and their overall health. It is important to discuss these alternatives with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate option.
In addition to considering generic and alternative options, other important considerations when taking Eliquis include following the prescribed dosage and schedule, being aware of potential side effects and interactions with other medications, and seeking medical attention if any concerning symptoms or adverse reactions occur. It is also important to store Eliquis properly and dispose of any expired or unneeded portions as directed by a pharmacist or local waste disposal company. By being informed and proactive, individuals can ensure their safety and optimize the effectiveness of their medication.
A generic version of Eliquis, known as Apixaban, is available for individuals seeking an alternative option for this medication. Apixaban is a blood thinner and anticoagulant that works by preventing the formation of blood clots. It is used to prevent blood clots due to atrial fibrillation or after hip/knee replacement surgery, as well as to treat certain types of blood clots and prevent their recurrence.
The availability of the generic version may vary, so it is important to consult with a healthcare professional or pharmacist to determine its availability and cost. Generic medications are often more affordable than their brand-name counterparts, making them a viable option for individuals seeking cost-effective alternatives.
It is important to note that generic medications contain the same active ingredients as the brand-name medication and must meet the same quality and safety standards set by regulatory authorities. Therefore, individuals can have confidence in the effectiveness and safety of the generic version of Eliquis, as long as it is obtained from a reputable source.
When considering the use of the generic version, discussing the option with a healthcare professional is advised, to ensure it is appropriate for a given individual's circumstances and medical needs. They can provide guidance and answer any questions or concerns regarding the use of the generic version of Eliquis.
The availability of the generic version of Eliquis, known as Apixaban, may vary depending on where the patient resides, and what pharmacy services are available in the area. Although the internet and mail shipping have largely alleviated many of the obstacles to availability. Generic medications are equivalent to their brand-name counterparts in terms of active ingredients, dosage form, strength, and route of administration. They provide a more affordable option for individuals who may have difficulty accessing or affording the brand-name version. However, it is important to note that the availability of the generic version of Eliquis may be subject to different regulations and approval processes in different countries. Additionally, individual pharmacies may choose to stock different generic versions based on factors such as cost and availability from manufacturers. Consulting with your healthcare provider or pharmacist can help to determine if the generic version of Eliquis is available in your region and pharmacy. They can provide the most up-to-date information regarding the availability and pricing of the generic version of Eliquis, as well as any potential differences or considerations when switching from the brand-name medication.
Allergic reactions to Eliquis, including skin rash and itching, are potential side effects that should be promptly addressed by seeking medical attention. While rare, severe allergic reactions can occur, characterized by swelling under the skin and trouble breathing. In such cases, immediate medical attention is necessary. It is important for individuals taking Eliquis to be aware of any changes in their skin or any itching that may occur, as these could be signs of an allergic reaction. Promptly reporting these symptoms to a healthcare professional can help prevent the allergic reaction from worsening.
Allergic reactions are just one of the potential side effects of Eliquis. It is important to be aware of other serious side effects, including serious bleeding, an increased risk for blood clots if the treatment is stopped early, and the possibility of blood clots in the spine with spinal procedures. Understanding and recognizing these serious side effects is crucial in order to seek appropriate medical attention and prevent any further complications.
Excessive bleeding is a known risk with Eliquis, and it can range from minor instances such as nosebleeds or bleeding gums, to more severe and potentially life-threatening instances. If you experience any unusual or prolonged bleeding, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Additionally, Eliquis should be stopped before undergoing any surgical or medical procedures to minimize the risk of bleeding complications.
Another serious side effect to be aware of is the potential for blood clots in the spine when spinal procedures are undertaken. This can lead to a condition called spinal or epidural hematoma, which can cause significant neurological damage. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about your use of Eliquis if you are scheduled to undergo any spinal procedures.
It is crucial to be vigilant for any signs of these serious side effects while taking Eliquis and to seek immediate medical attention if any arise. Your healthcare provider can provide further guidance on managing these risks and ensuring your safety while using Eliquis.
One important consideration when taking Eliquis is the impact it may have on daily activities. While Eliquis is an effective medication for preventing blood clots and reducing the risk of stroke, it is also a blood thinner that can increase the risk of bleeding. This means that certain activities may need to be limited or approached with caution to prevent injury or excessive bleeding. It is recommended to exercise caution with sharp objects and to avoid contact sports, as these activities can potentially lead to cuts and bruising. It is important to discuss any concerns or questions about specific activities with a healthcare provider to ensure safety and minimize the risk of complications.
In order to preserve your medication a few simple tips should be followed. Keep Eliquis at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Do not store it in the bathroom since showers and baths produce excessive humity which may degrade your medications. It is important to store Eliquis in a safe place where children and pets cannot reach it. If the tablet is crushed and mixed with a liquid, the mixture should be used within four hours. It is crucial to follow these storage instructions to ensure the effectiveness and safety of Eliquis. By storing Eliquis properly, you can maintain its integrity and prevent any potential damage, degradation or contamination. Always remember to keep track of the expiration date and dispose of any expired medication promptly.
When considering the proper disposal of expired or unused Eliquis, it is important to follow recommended guidelines to ensure the safe and appropriate disposal of the medication. Improper disposal can lead to potential harm to others and negative environmental impacts. To dispose of expired or unused Eliquis, it is recommended to consult a pharmacist or local waste disposal company for guidance. They can provide specific instructions on how to safely dispose of the medication. It is important not to flush Eliquis down the toilet or pour it down the drain, as this can contaminate water sources.
If no take back program is available in your area, almost all medicines, except those on the FDA Flush List, can be thrown into your household trash. These include prescription and over-the-counter drugs in pills, liquids, drops, patches and creams. When disposing of drugs, follow these steps:
* Remove the drugs from their original containers and mix them with something undesirable, such as used coffee grounds, dirt, or cat litter. This makes the medicine less appealing to children and pets and unrecognizable to someone who might intentionally go through the trash looking for drugs. Put the mixture in something you can close (a re-sealable zipper storage bag, empty can, or other container) to prevent the drug from leaking or spilling out.
* Throw the container in the garbage.
* Scratch out all your personal information on the empty medicine packaging to protect your identity and privacy. Throw the packaging away.
Eliquis is not known to cause joint pain. Its common side effects include nausea, easy bruising, and minor bleeding. Serious bleeding may occur, but joint pain is not listed as a known side effect.
The difference between Eliquis and Xarelto lies in their active ingredients, mechanism of action, and indications. Both drugs are anticoagulants used to prevent blood clots, but they have different chemical structures and varying dosing regimens. Consult a healthcare professional to determine which drug is best for your individual circumstance.
When considering stopping Eliquis treatment, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional. Abruptly stopping treatment can increase the risk of blood clots and stroke. Always follow the doctor's instructions and do not make changes to the treatment plan without medical guidance.
While taking Eliquis, it is important to be cautious with sharp objects and avoid contact sports to prevent cuts and bleeding. Limiting alcohol consumption can also reduce the risk of stomach bleeding.
To properly store and dispose of expired or unused Eliquis, it should be kept at room temperature, away from light and moisture. It should not be stored in the bathroom. Consult a pharmacist or local waste disposal company for proper disposal.
Apixaban
(a pix' a ban)
Eliquis®
If you have atrial fibrillation (a condition in which the heart beats irregularly, increasing the chance of clots forming in the body, and possibly causing strokes) and are taking apixaban to help prevent strokes or serious blood clots, you are at a higher risk of having a stroke after you stop taking this medication. Do not stop taking apixaban without talking to your doctor. Continue to take apixaban even if you feel well. Be sure to refill your prescription before you run out of medication so that you will not miss any doses of apixaban. If you need to stop taking apixaban, your doctor may prescribe another anticoagulant ('blood thinner') to help prevent a blood clot from forming and causing you to have a stroke.
If you have epidural or spinal anesthesia or a spinal puncture while taking a 'blood thinner' such as apixaban, you are at risk of having a blood clot form in or around your spine that could cause you to become paralyzed. Tell your doctor if you have an epidural catheter that is left in your body or have or have ever had repeated epidural or spinal punctures, spinal deformity, or spinal surgery. Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of the following: anagrelide (Agrylin); aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), indomethacin (Indocin, Tivorbex), ketoprofen, and naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox, others); cilostazol (Pletal); clopidogrel (Plavix); dipyridamole (Persantine); eptifibatide (Integrilin); heparin; prasugrel (Effient); ticagrelor (Brilinta); ticlopidine; tirofiban (Aggrastat), and warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven). If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately: muscle weakness (especially in your legs and feet), numbness or tingling (especially in your legs), or loss of control of your bowels or bladder.
Your doctor or pharmacist will give you the manufacturer's patient information sheet (Medication Guide) when you begin treatment with apixaban and each time you refill your prescription. Read the information carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. You can also visit the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website (http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm085729.htm) or the manufacturer's website to obtain the Medication Guide.
Talk to your doctor about the risks of taking apixaban.
Apixaban is used help prevent strokes or blood clots in people who have atrial fibrillation (a condition in which the heart beats irregularly, increasing the chance of clots forming in the body and possibly causing strokes) that is not caused by heart valve disease. Apixaban is also used to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT; a blood clot, usually in the leg) and pulmonary embolism (PE; a blood clot in the lung) in people who are having hip replacement or knee replacement surgery. Apixaban is also used to treat DVT and PE and may be continued to prevent DVT and PE from happening again after the initial treatment is completed. Apixaban is in a class of medications called factor Xa inhibitors. It works by blocking the action of a certain natural substance that helps blood clots to form.
Apixaban comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken with or without food twice a day. When apixaban is taken to prevent DVT and PE after hip or knee replacement surgery, the first dose should be taken at least 12 to 24 hours after surgery. Apixaban is usually taken for 35 days after a hip replacement surgery and for 12 days after knee replacement surgery. Take apixaban at around the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take apixaban exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. If you are unable to swallow the tablets, you can crush them and mix with water, apple juice, or applesauce. Swallow the mixture right after you prepare it. Apixaban can also be given in certain types of feeding tubes. Ask your doctor if you should take this medication in your feeding tube. Follow your doctor's directions carefully. Continue to take apixaban even if you feel well. Do not stop taking apixaban without talking to your doctor. If you stop taking apixaban, your risk of a blood clot may increase.
Before taking apixaban, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to apixaban, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in apixaban tablets. Ask your pharmacist or check the Medication Guide for a list of the ingredients. tell your doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, and nutritional supplements you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention any of the following: carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Epitol, Equetro, Tegretol, Teril); clarithromycin (Biaxin, in Prevpac); itraconazole (Onmel, Sporanox); ketoconazole (Nizoral); phenytoin (Dilantin, Phenytek); rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane, in Rifadin, in Rifater); ritonavir (Norvir, in Kaletra); selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as citalopram (Celexa), fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem, Selfemra, in Symbyax), fluvoxamine (Luvox), paroxetine (Brisdelle, Paxil, Pexeva), and sertraline (Zoloft); and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) such as duloxetine (Cymbalta), desvenlafaxine (Khedezla, Pristiq), milnacipran (Fetzima, Savella), and venlafaxine (Effexor). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects. Many other medications may also interact with apixaban, so be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, even those that do not appear on this list. tell your doctor what herbal products you are taking, especially St. John's wort. you should know that apixaban may interact with certain medications that may be used to treat you if you have a stroke or other medical emergency. In case of an emergency, you or a family member should tell the doctor or emergency room staff who treat you that you are taking apixaban. tell your doctor if you have an artificial heart valve or if you have heavy bleeding anywhere in your body that cannot be stopped. Your doctor will probably tell you not to take apixaban. tell your doctor if you have or have ever had any type of bleeding problem, or kidney or liver disease. tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while taking apixaban, call your doctor. if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking apixaban. Your doctor may tell you to stop taking apixaban before the surgery or procedure. If you need to stop taking apixaban because you are having surgery, your doctor may prescribe a different medication to prevent blood clots during this time. Your doctor will tell you when you should start taking apixaban again after your surgery. Follow these directions carefully. Call your doctor right away if you fall or injure yourself, especially if you hit your head. Your doctor may need to check you.
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately or get emergency medical treatment: bleeding gums nosebleeds heavy vaginal bleeding red, pink, or brown urine red or black, tarry stools coughing up or vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds swelling or joint pain headache rash chest pain or tightness swelling of the face or tongue trouble breathing wheezing feeling dizzy or faint Apixaban prevents blood from clotting normally, so it may take longer than usual for you to stop bleeding if you are cut or injured. This medication may also cause you to bruise or bleed more easily. Call your doctor right away if bleeding or bruising is unusual, severe, or cannot be controlled. Apixaban may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication. If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online (http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch) or by phone (1-800-332-1088).
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from light, excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Unneeded medications should be disposed of in special ways to ensure that pets, children, and other people cannot consume them. However, you should not flush this medication down the toilet. Instead, the best way to dispose of your medication is through a medicine take-back program. Talk to your pharmacist or contact your local garbage/recycling department to learn about take-back programs in your community. See the FDA's Safe Disposal of Medicines website (http://goo.gl/c4Rm4p) for more information if you do not have access to a take-back program. It is important to keep all medication out of sight and reach of children as many containers (such as weekly pill minders and those for eye drops, creams, patches, and inhalers) are not child-resistant and young children can open them easily. To protect young children from poisoning, always lock safety caps and immediately place the medication in a safe location – one that is up and away and out of their sight and reach. http://www.upandaway.org
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
The content on this page is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice. Patients should not use the information presented on this page for diagnosing a health-related issue or disease. Before taking any medication or supplements, patients should always consult a physician or qualified healthcare professional for medical advice or information about whether a drug is safe, appropriate or effective.
