Eliquis (Apixaban)

Primary Uses

Eliquis is FDA-approved for: Atrial Fibrillation (AF): Reduces stroke risk and systemic embolism in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. This irregular heart rhythm can cause blood to pool in heart chambers, potentially forming clots that could travel to the brain and cause stroke.

Dosing Information

• Standard dose: 5mg twice daily
• Reduced dose: 2.5mg twice daily for patients who are:
  • 80 years or older
  • Weigh 60kg (132 lbs) or less
  • Have kidney problems (serum creatinine ≥1.5 mg/dL)

Take Eliquis exactly as prescribed, with or without food. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember on the same day, but don't double up doses.

Who Should Use Eliquis

Eliquis may be appropriate for patients who:

• Have been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation
• Are at increased risk for stroke
• Cannot take warfarin or need an alternative to warfarin
• Want to avoid regular blood monitoring required with older anticoagulants

Important Safety Information

• Do not stop taking Eliquis without talking to your doctor first, as this increases stroke risk
• Not recommended for patients with artificial heart valves
• Tell all healthcare providers (including dentists) that you take Eliquis before any procedure
• Avoid activities with high bleeding risk while taking this medication

For patients seeking affordable medication alternatives or looking to order prescription refills, always ensure you're working with licensed healthcare providers and legitimate pharmacies. Whether you need Eliquis for cardiovascular protection or other medications like vermazol for infections or hepazec for liver support, working with reputable healthcare providers ensures you receive appropriate treatment for your specific medical needs.

How does Eliquis compare to other anticoagulants?

Eliquis offers several advantages over traditional anticoagulants like warfarin. Unlike warfarin, you don't need regular blood tests to monitor clotting levels. Studies indicate Eliquis may have a lower risk of major bleeding, particularly brain bleeding, compared to warfarin. However, like Xarelto vs Eliquis, both medications are effective newer-generation anticoagulants.

Can I take Eliquis with food?

Yes, you can take Eliquis with or without food. Taking it with food doesn't affect medication effectiveness, so you can choose whatever fits best with your routine.

What should I do if I need surgery while taking Eliquis?

Always inform your surgeon and all healthcare providers that you take Eliquis. Typically, your doctor will ask you to stop taking Eliquis 48-72 hours before most procedures, depending on your bleeding risk. Never discontinue Eliquis without medical guidance.

How long do I need to take Eliquis?

For atrial fibrillation, Eliquis is usually a long-term medication. Your doctor will determine duration based on your individual risk factors. Many patients with AF need to take anticoagulants indefinitely to prevent stroke.

Are there dietary restrictions with Eliquis?

Unlike warfarin, Eliquis doesn't require dietary restrictions. You can eat foods high in vitamin K (like leafy greens) without affecting the medication. However, limit alcohol consumption, as it can increase bleeding risk.

What makes Eliquis different from traditional anticoagulants?

Eliquis is a newer type of anticoagulant called a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC). It works differently than warfarin by directly blocking factor Xa rather than affecting multiple clotting factors. This targeted approach allows for more predictable effects without requiring regular monitoring.

Can I get Eliquis from online pharmacies?

When looking for reputable online pharmacy options or seeking affordable medication alternatives, ensure you choose licensed pharmacies that require valid prescriptions. For patients also needing medications like Jardiance or Januvia, reputable online pharmacies can provide convenient access to multiple medications.

Is Eliquis safe for elderly patients?

Yes, Eliquis can be safely used in elderly patients, though dose adjustments may be necessary. Patients 80 years and older typically receive the lower 2.5mg twice daily dose. Clinical studies included many elderly patients and demonstrated good safety profiles.