Apixaban
Apixaban, sold as Eliquis, is a factor Xa inhibitor: a blood thinner that reduces the risk of stroke and deep vein thrombosis. This shelf carries one product in 2.5 mg and 5 mg film-coated tablets.
Key points
- Stopping Eliquis early, for any reason other than a bleeding problem or completing a planned course, increases the risk of a blood clot forming. The label advises considering cover with another anticoagulant if treatment must end.
- Anyone taking Eliquis who has a spinal injection or procedure, such as a lumbar puncture or epidural, can develop a blood clot around the spinal cord, which may cause long-term or permanent paralysis. This risk is weighed up carefully before any such procedure.
- Common side effects include gum bleeding, nosebleeds, bruising, blood in the urine and heavier menstrual bleeding, each reported in at least 1% of patients.
How does Apixaban work?
Apixaban is a direct-acting oral anticoagulant that blocks a clotting protein called factor Xa. By inhibiting factor Xa, whether it is free in the blood or already bound inside a forming clot, apixaban reduces the amount of thrombin generated and slows the growth of blood clots. This is what makes apixaban a treatment for Stroke Prevention in people with atrial fibrillation and for preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis after hip or knee surgery.