apiban (APIXABAN)
Introduction to Apiban
Apiban is a widely recognized anticoagulant medication that plays a crucial role in preventing blood clots. It is primarily prescribed for patients at risk of stroke or those wit... See More

What is Apiban?
Apiban is a medicine that helps prevent blood clots in people with an irregular heartbeat or those who have had hip or knee replacement surgery. It works by stopping clots from forming in the blood.

How do I take Apiban?
Take your Apiban pills twice a day, exactly as your doctor tells you. You can take them with or without food.

For how long do I take Apiban?
After hip replacement surgery, you'll take the blood thinner Apiban for about a month and a half (35 days). For knee replacement, it's a shorter time, about 12 days. The medicine continues to work to prevent blood clots for at least a full day after your last dose.

What is Apiban used for?
Apiban tablets are a type of medication used for two main purposes: 1. **Preventing Blood Clots in People with Atrial Fibrillation:** Atrial fibrillation is a heart condition that can increase the risk of stroke. Apiban helps reduce this risk by preventing blood clots from forming in the heart. 2. **Preventing Blood Clots after Hip or Knee Replacement Surgery:** After these surgeries, there's a higher chance of blood clots forming in the legs or lungs. Apiban helps lower this risk by thinning the blood and making it less likely to clot.

How long does it take for Apiban to start working?
Apiban, a blood thinner, typically starts working within 2 to 4 hours after taking it. It reaches its peak effectiveness around 3 to 4 hours post-dose. This medication helps prevent blood clots by inhibiting a specific clotting factor in the blood, making it take longer for clots to form

Is Apiban effective?
Apiban has been shown to be effective in preventing strokes and blood clots. In the ARISTOTLE trial, it reduced the risk of stroke or systemic embolism by 21% compared to warfarin, with fewer major bleeding incidents. Similarly, the AVERROES trial demonstrated that Apiban was more effective than aspirin in high-risk patients. Overall, studies indicate that Apiban not only works well but also has a better safety profile than traditional treatments like warfarin and aspirin.

How does one know if Apiban is working?
The effectiveness of Apiban is evaluated through clinical trials and real-world studies. For instance, large studies compared Apiban to traditional treatments like warfarin, measuring outcomes such as strokes and bleeding risks. Results showed that Apiban significantly reduced the risk of strokes while causing fewer major bleeding events. Additionally, ongoing monitoring of patient adherence and safety helps ensure its benefits are maintained in everyday use, confirming its effectiveness in various patient populations.

How does Apiban work?
Apiban is a blood thinner that works by stopping a blood clotting protein (Factor Xa) from doing its job. This prevents blood clots from forming. It doesn't directly affect platelets (another part of blood clotting), but it does indirectly help prevent clots that platelets might cause. Although it does slightly change some blood tests (PT, INR, aPTT), these tests aren't very good at showing how well the medicine is working.

Who should avoid taking Apiban?
**Important Warnings:** * **Allergic reactions:** If you have chest pain, swelling of your face or tongue, trouble breathing, or feel dizzy, call your doctor or get help right away. * **Tell your doctor about other medicines you take:** Some medicines can affect how this medicine works or increase your risk of bleeding. * **Swallowing the tablet:** If you can't swallow it whole, talk to your doctor about other ways to take it. * **Don't stop taking this medicine:** Stopping it may increase your risk of stroke. * **Refill your prescription:** Don't run out of this medicine. * **Overdose:** Call your doctor or go to the hospital if you take too much. * **Head injuries:** Call your doctor if you fall or injure your head, especially if you hit your head. * **Bleeding risk:** You may have a higher risk of bleeding if you take other medicines that increase bleeding risk. * **Spinal anesthesia:** If you have spinal anesthesia, your doctor should watch you for bleeding or blood clots.

Can I take Apiban with vitamins or supplements?
Apiban is a blood thinner. While there's no specific list of vitamins or supplements that interact with it, it's very important to tell your doctor about *everything* you take, including vitamins and supplements. Some things you take could make Apiban work less well or increase your chances of bleeding.

Can I take Apiban with other prescription drugs?
Taking Apiban with other medicines that increase bleeding risk, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, blood thinners, or steroids, can increase your chance of bleeding.

Can Apiban be taken safely while pregnant?
Apiban is usually not recommended during pregnancy because of possible risks. While animal studies didn’t show major harm, there isn’t enough human data to be sure it’s safe. It can cause issues like bleeding in the uterus, which might harm the baby. Because of these concerns, doctors generally advise against using Apiban during pregnancy to protect both the mother and the developing fetus.

Can Apiban be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Apiban is a blood thinner that can pass into breast milk. It's not known if Apiban is safe for breastfed babies, so breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Apiban tablets. Talk to your doctor about whether to take Apiban tablets or breastfeed. It's not safe to do both.

Is Apiban safe for the elderly?
This medicine is safe and works just as well for older people (over 65) as it does for younger people. Many older adults were included in the studies testing this medicine. It's important not to stop taking this medicine suddenly, as that can increase the risk of blood clots. Talk to your doctor before you stop.

How should I store Apiban?
Keep your Apiban pills at room temperature, somewhere between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit (or 20 and 25 degrees Celsius). Make sure kids can't get to them.

Does Apiban make people tired or drowsy?
One common side effect of Apiban is unusual tiredness or weakness, which occurs in about 10% of users. If you experience this or any other side effects, it's important to talk to your doctor. They can help determine if the side effect is related to the medication and suggest what to do next, which may include adjusting your dose or considering alternative treatments. Always seek medical advice if side effects are severe or concerning.

Does Apiban cause stomach upset?
Common gastrointestinal side effects of Apiban include nausea, which occurs in about 14% of users, and vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, each affecting between 1% to 10% of patients. If you experience these side effects, it’s important to contact your doctor. They can assess the severity and determine if any changes to your treatment are needed. Always seek medical help if symptoms worsen or become severe.

Does Apiban affect sleep?
Apiban can cause **insomnia** in about **10%** of users. If you notice changes in your sleep, such as difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, it's important to talk to your doctor. They can help determine if the medication is the cause and suggest ways to improve your sleep or consider alternative treatments. Always reach out for medical advice if sleep issues persist or worsen.

Does Apiban make it hard to think or concentrate?
Apiban can lead to **confusion** and **decreased alertness**, though these cognitive side effects are less common and occur in less than **10%** of users. If you experience difficulty concentrating, thinking, or remembering while taking Apiban, it’s important to contact your doctor. They can help determine if the medication is causing these issues and discuss possible adjustments or alternatives to your treatment. Always seek medical advice if cognitive changes are significant or concerning.

Does Apiban affect mood?
Apiban is not commonly associated with mood changes, but some users report anxiety or mood swings, though these side effects occur in less than 10% of patients. If you experience significant mood changes or anxiety while taking Apiban, it's important to speak with your doctor. They can evaluate your symptoms and determine if the medication is contributing to these issues. Your doctor may suggest adjusting your treatment or exploring alternative options to help manage your mental health.

Does Apiban interfere with sexual function?
Apiban is not commonly reported to cause sexual side effects like loss of libido or difficulty getting an erection, and these issues occur in less than 10% of users. If you experience any changes in sexual function while taking Apiban, it's important to discuss this with your doctor. They can help determine if the medication is affecting you and may suggest adjustments or alternative treatments to address your concerns. Always seek medical advice if the side effects are significant or troubling.

Does Apiban affect appetite?
Apiban may lead to a decrease in appetite, but this side effect occurs in less than 10% of users. If you notice a significant change in your appetite or experience weight loss while taking Apiban, it's important to consult your doctor. They can help determine if the medication is the cause and suggest ways to manage your appetite or consider alternative treatments. Always seek medical advice if these changes are concerning or persistent.

Does Apiban cause weight gain?
Apiban is not known to cause weight gain, and this side effect was not reported in clinical trials. However, some people might gain weight due to reduced mobility from the conditions Apiban treats, like after surgery. If you notice any significant weight changes while taking Apiban, it's important to talk to your doctor. They can help determine the cause and suggest ways to manage your weight effectively while on the medication.

Does Apiban cause headaches?
Apiban can cause headaches, which occur in about 1% to 10% of users. If you experience frequent or severe headaches while taking this medication, it's important to consult your doctor. They can assess whether the headaches are related to Apiban and recommend appropriate steps, which may include adjusting your dosage or exploring alternative treatments.

Does Apiban limit driving?
Apiban typically does not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery, as it does not cause drowsiness or impair cognitive function. If you experience any unusual symptoms that make driving difficult, such as dizziness or confusion, it's important to consult your doctor. They can evaluate your condition and determine if any adjustments to your treatment are necessary.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Apiban?
Drinking alcohol while taking Apiban can increase the risk of bleeding and interfere with liver metabolism. Occasional light drinking may be acceptable, but heavy alcohol use should be avoided. Always consult your doctor to determine what’s safe for you.

Is it safe to drink coffee or tea while taking Apiban?
Yes, coffee and tea are generally safe with Apiban. However, excessive caffeine may cause dehydration, and certain herbal teas (like ginkgo or licorice) could have mild blood-thinning effects. It's best to consume them in moderation and consult your doctor if unsure.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Apiban?
Yes, exercise is generally safe while taking Apiban , but you should take precautions. Avoid high-impact or contact sports that increase the risk of injury and bleeding (e.g., football, boxing). Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and yoga are safer options. Always consult your doctor before starting a new workout routine.

What are Apiban possible harms and risks?
This medicine can cause your blood to become thinner. This can lead to bleeding, especially in your stomach and intestines. If the medicine is stopped suddenly, you could have a very bad reaction including blood clots. You may also have bleeding problems if you receive a spinal injection or puncture.
Available in 2 variations
Apiban 5mg Tablet 10s
Apixaban (5mg)
strip of 10 tablets

Apiban 2.5mg Tablet
Apixaban (2.5mg)
strip of 10 tablets