Eliquis (apixaban) is a prescription medication that functions as an anticoagulant, commonly known as a blood thinner. It is crucial to understand what Eliquis is for, its potential side effects, and necessary precautions before taking it. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Eliquis, drawing from official prescribing information to offer a clear understanding of its purpose and usage.
Indications: What Eliquis Treats
Eliquis is prescribed for several specific conditions:
- Atrial Fibrillation (AFib): Eliquis reduces the risk of stroke and blood clots in people with atrial fibrillation, a type of irregular heartbeat not caused by a heart valve problem.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE): Eliquis treats blood clots in the veins of the legs (DVT) or lungs (PE) and reduces the risk of them occurring again.
- Post-Surgery Blood Clot Prevention: Eliquis is used to reduce the risk of forming a blood clot in the legs and lungs of people who have just had hip or knee replacement surgery.
Eliquis is available in 2.5-mg and 5-mg tablets. It’s crucial to use this medication exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Important Safety Information
Before taking Eliquis, it’s essential to be aware of the following safety information:
- Stopping Eliquis: For those taking Eliquis for atrial fibrillation, do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor. Stopping Eliquis increases the risk of stroke.
- Surgery or Medical Procedures: Eliquis may need to be stopped prior to surgery or medical/dental procedures. Your doctor will advise you when to stop and when to restart. If you need to stop, your doctor may prescribe another medicine to prevent blood clots.
Risks and Precautions
Bleeding Risks
Eliquis can cause bleeding, which can be serious and, rarely, may lead to death. This is because Eliquis is a blood thinner that reduces blood clotting. The risk of bleeding is higher if you take Eliquis with other medicines that increase bleeding risk, such as:
- Aspirin
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Warfarin
- Heparin
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
- Other medicines to prevent or treat blood clots
Inform your doctor about all medications you take, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
While taking ELIQUIS, you may bruise more easily and it may take longer than usual for any bleeding to stop.
Signs and Symptoms of Bleeding:
Call your doctor or get medical help immediately if you experience any of these symptoms:
- Unexpected or prolonged bleeding (e.g., unusual bleeding from gums, frequent nosebleeds, heavier than normal menstrual/vaginal bleeding)
- Severe or uncontrollable bleeding
- Red, pink, or brown urine; red or black stools (looks like tar)
- Coughing up or vomiting blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
- Unexpected pain, swelling, or joint pain
- Headaches, dizziness, or weakness
Spinal or Epidural Blood Clots (Hematoma)
People who take Eliquis and have medicine injected into their spinal/epidural area or undergo a spinal puncture are at risk of forming a blood clot that can cause long-term or permanent loss of movement (paralysis). The risk is higher if:
- An epidural catheter is placed in your back
- You take NSAIDs or medicines to prevent blood clotting
- You have a history of difficult/repeated epidural/spinal punctures
- You have a history of spine problems or surgery
If you receive spinal anesthesia or have a spinal puncture while taking Eliquis, your doctor should monitor you closely for symptoms of spinal/epidural blood clots or bleeding. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness, especially in your legs and feet.
Other Precautions
- Artificial Heart Valves: Eliquis is not for patients with artificial heart valves.
- Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS): Eliquis is not for use in people with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), especially with positive triple antibody testing, who have a history of blood clots.
- Abnormal Bleeding: Do not take Eliquis if you currently have certain types of abnormal bleeding or have had a serious allergic reaction to Eliquis.
- Kidney and Liver Problems: Tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or plan to become pregnant or breastfeed. You and your doctor should decide whether to take Eliquis or breastfeed. Females who are able to become pregnant should discuss pregnancy planning and the risk of severe uterine bleeding with their healthcare provider.
Dosage and Administration
Take Eliquis exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is typically taken twice daily, with or without food. Do not change your dose or stop taking Eliquis unless your doctor tells you to. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but do not take more than one dose simultaneously. If you are taking Eliquis for atrial fibrillation, stopping it may increase your risk of stroke, so refill your prescription before you run out.
Possible Side Effects
Besides bleeding, a reaction to Eliquis can cause hives, rash, itching, and possibly trouble breathing. If you experience sudden chest pain or tightness, swelling of your face or tongue, trouble breathing, wheezing, or dizziness/fainting, seek immediate medical help.
Conclusion
Understanding what Eliquis is for, along with its risks and precautions, is vital for safe and effective use. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and discuss any concerns or questions you may have. Being well-informed ensures you can manage your health effectively while taking Eliquis.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
