eliquis (APIXABAN)
Introduction to Eliquis
Eliquis is a widely prescribed anticoagulant medication used primarily to prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of stroke, particularly in individuals with atrial fibrillation... See More
What is Eliquis?
Eliquis 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.
What is the usual dose of Eliquis?
The usual adult dose of Eliquis is 5 mg taken orally twice daily. For adults with certain conditions like age over 80, body weight under 60 kg, or serum creatinine over 1.5 mg/dL, the dose is reduced to 2.5 mg twice daily. Eliquis is not recommended for use in children as safety and effectiveness have not been established.
How do I take Eliquis?
Take your Eliquis pills twice a day, exactly as your doctor tells you. You can take them with or without food.
For how long do I take Eliquis?
After hip replacement surgery, you'll take the blood thinner Eliquis 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 disease or symptom is Eliquis used for?
Eliquis 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. Eliquis 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. Eliquis helps lower this risk by thinning the blood and making it less likely to clot.
How long does it take for Eliquis to start working?
Eliquis, 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 Eliquis effective?
Eliquis 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 Eliquis was more effective than aspirin in high-risk patients. Overall, studies indicate that Eliquis not only works well but also has a better safety profile than traditional treatments like warfarin and aspirin.
How do I know if Eliquis is working?
The effectiveness of Eliquis is evaluated through clinical trials and real-world studies. For instance, large studies compared Eliquis to traditional treatments like warfarin, measuring outcomes such as strokes and bleeding risks. Results showed that Eliquis 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 Eliquis work?
Eliquis 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 Eliquis?
**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 Eliquis with other prescription drugs?
Taking Eliquis with other medicines that increase bleeding risk, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, blood thinners, or steroids, can increase your chance of bleeding.
Can Eliquis be taken safely while pregnant?
Eliquis 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 Eliquis during pregnancy to protect both the mother and the developing fetus.
Can Eliquis be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Eliquis is a blood thinner that can pass into breast milk. It's not known if Eliquis is safe for breastfed babies, so breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Eliquis tablets. Talk to your doctor about whether to take Eliquis tablets or breastfeed. It's not safe to do both.
Is Eliquis 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 Eliquis?
Keep your Eliquis 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 Eliquis make people tired or drowsy?
One common side effect of Eliquis 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 Eliquis cause stomach upset?
Common gastrointestinal side effects of Eliquis 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 Eliquis affect sleep?
Eliquis 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 Eliquis make it hard to think or concentrate?
Eliquis 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 Eliquis, 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 Eliquis affect mood?
Eliquis 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 Eliquis, 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 Eliquis interfere with sexual function?
Eliquis 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 Eliquis, 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 Eliquis affect appetite?
Eliquis 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 Eliquis, 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 Eliquis cause weight gain?
Eliquis 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 Eliquis treats, like after surgery. If you notice any significant weight changes while taking Eliquis, 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 Eliquis cause headaches?
Eliquis 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 Eliquis and recommend appropriate steps, which may include adjusting your dosage or exploring alternative treatments.
Does Eliquis limit driving?
Eliquis 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 Eliquis?
Drinking alcohol while taking Eliquis 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 Eliquis?
Yes, coffee and tea are generally safe with Eliquis. 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 Eliquis?
Yes, exercise is generally safe while taking Eliquis , 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 the most common side effects of Eliquis?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. With empagliflozin, these effects vary from person to person. The most common side effect is urinary tract infections, which affect about 8-9% of people taking this medication. Women may experience genital yeast infections, which occur in about 2-5% of female patients. Men can also get genital yeast infections, but this happens less frequently. Some people notice they urinate more often when taking empagliflozin, which happens in about 1-3% of patients. Upper respiratory infections, which affect your nose, throat, and airways, occur in about 4% of people taking this medication. If you notice new symptoms after starting empagliflozin, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Does Eliquis have adverse effects?
Adverse effects, which are unwanted reactions to a medicine, can occur with empagliflozin. Common effects include urinary tract infections, which affect up to 9% of users, and genital yeast infections, especially in women. These can cause itching and unusual discharge. The medicine may increase urination, leading to dehydration, which means your body lacks enough fluids and might cause dizziness. A rare but serious effect is ketoacidosis, which is a dangerous acid buildup in the blood and needs immediate medical attention. Severe allergic reactions, kidney problems, or Fournier's gangrene, which is a serious genital infection, are very rare. Always inform your doctor about any new or worsening symptoms while on empagliflozin.
Is Eliquis addictive?
Empagliflozin is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Empagliflozin works by affecting your kidneys to help remove sugar through urine. This mechanism doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to take more than prescribed. Unlike some medications that can cause psychological or physical dependence, empagliflozin doesn't create these effects. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that empagliflozin doesn't carry this risk while managing your health condition.
Does Eliquis have any safety warnings?
Empagliflozin has important safety warnings you should know about. This medication can increase your risk of diabetic ketoacidosis, which is a dangerous buildup of acids in your blood. This can happen even when your blood sugar is normal, especially if you miss insulin doses or get sick. If you experience nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or breathing problems, get emergency help. Empagliflozin can cause dehydration, which means your body doesn't have enough fluids. This may lead to low blood pressure or kidney problems. Drink plenty of water while taking this medicine. Serious urinary tract infections, which are infections in the system that removes urine from your body, can occur. Watch for painful urination, fever, or back pain. Although rare, this medication can cause necrotizing fasciitis, which is a serious bacterial infection in the genital area requiring immediate medical attention. Genital yeast infections are common with empagliflozin. Regular foot care is important as this medicine may increase amputation risk in some patients. Stop taking the medicine and seek help if you develop signs of an allergic reaction.
Is it safe to stop Eliquis?
Stopping empagliflozin suddenly can cause serious problems for your health conditions. If you're taking it for type 2 diabetes, your blood sugar levels might rise quickly when you stop. For heart failure, which is when your heart can't pump blood effectively, or kidney disease, which is damage to organs that filter waste from your blood, stopping could make these conditions worse. A dangerous complication called diabetic ketoacidosis might occur if you suddenly stop taking empagliflozin. This condition, which causes harmful acids to build up in your blood, can cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and breathing problems. This risk continues for several days after stopping the medication. Always talk with your doctor before stopping empagliflozin. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control. Your doctor will help you make any medication changes safely to protect your health.
How do I dispose of Eliquis?
If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so it doesn't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
What are Eliquis 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 3 variations
Eliquis 2.5mg Tablet
Apixaban (2.5mg)
strip of 10 tablets
Eliquis 5mg Tablet
Apixaban (5mg)
strip of 10 tablet
Eliquis 5mg Tablet 20s
Apixaban (5mg)
strip of 20 tablets
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