Apixaban: What It Does and How to Use It

Apixaban (brand name Eliquis) is a blood thinner used to prevent harmful clots. Doctors prescribe it for atrial fibrillation to cut stroke risk and for treating or preventing deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. It works by blocking a clotting protein so clots form less easily.

Knowing the basics helps you use apixaban safely. Take it exactly as your prescriber tells you. Missing doses raises your clot risk. Don’t double up unless your doctor says so. Most people take the pill twice a day with or without food.

How apixaban works and common doses

Typical dosing is 5 mg twice daily for many adults. Some people use 2.5 mg twice daily if they are older, weigh less, or have certain medical issues. Your doctor picks the dose based on your age, weight, kidney function, and why you need anticoagulation. If you stop apixaban suddenly, your clot risk can rise, so talk to your doctor before stopping.

Unlike warfarin, apixaban does not require routine INR checks. Still, your provider may test kidney and liver function sometimes. Carry a list of your medicines. That helps avoid dangerous drug interactions.

Safety tips, interactions, and buying online

Bleeding is the main risk. Watch for heavy bruising, long nosebleeds, blood in urine or stool, severe headache, or sudden weakness. If you have any of those signs, get medical help right away. Avoid high bleeding risk activities without talking to your clinician.

Some drugs raise bleeding risk with apixaban. Common ones include NSAIDs like ibuprofen, certain antidepressants, and other blood thinners. Antibiotics and antifungals can change apixaban levels too. Always check with your prescriber or pharmacist before adding new medicines, supplements, or herbal products such as St. John’s wort.

Planning surgery or dental work? Tell the surgeon and dentist you take apixaban. They will advise when to stop before the procedure and when to restart. Pregnancy and breastfeeding raise special concerns, so discuss alternatives if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Buying apixaban requires a prescription. If you shop online, pick a licensed pharmacy and verify credentials. Look for clear contact details, pharmacist access, and positive reviews. Avoid offers that skip prescription checks or promise suspiciously low prices. Our site has guides on safe online pharmacies and how to spot scams.

Questions for your doctor: why apixaban is best for you, the right dose, how long to take it, how to handle missed doses, and what to do for procedures. Keep a medication card and talk to your health team if your health or other medicines change.

If you miss a dose within a few hours, take it when you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one — do not double up. Store apixaban at room temperature away from moisture. Carry a card or phone note with your dose and prescriber contact. Keep follow up visits and report unusual bleeding or bruising immediately. Always ask your pharmacist any questions.