What is Eliquis?
Eliquis, also called apixaban, is an anticoagulant agent that is classified as a Factor Inhibitor. The drug is available in 5mg and 2.5 mg doses and is administered orally. This blood thinner is used to treat and prevent blood clots.
For a reduction of the risk of systemic embolism in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibration and stroke, patients may be required to take one 5 mg pill twice a day, depending on their age and body weight. It can also be used for the prevention of deep vein thrombosis after knee and hip replacement surgeries, with patients taking 2.5 mg pill every 12 hours.
Does Eliquis have any side effects?
The major concern about Eliquis is the patients’ potential for excessive bleeding. Since blood does not coagulate, you may experience an increased likelihood of nosebleeds and may be more prone to bleed from the gums while brushing. Your wounds may also bleed more than usual, with bruises and wounds taking up more time to scar.
You could also experience serious bleeding, which may require immediate medical attention. You should contact your doctor immediately if you have black fecal matter, red urine or blood stains after visiting the bathroom.
You may also need to get any prolonged vaginal bleeding and unusually heavy periods checked out. Coughing up blood, experiencing prolonged nosebleeds and continued bleeding from cuts or bruises may also be symptoms of serious bleeding.
Some people may be allergic to Eliquis. You should get immediate medical help if you experience wheezing, shortness of breath, tightness in the throat and chest, or start swelling in the mouth, eyes, face, and lips.
What you should know before taking Eliquis
You should not stop taking this medication without your doctor’s recommendations. People who stop taking Eliquis at once may increase their risk of stroke, pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, and heart attacks.
Excessive consumption of alcohol may increase the risk of excessive bleeding. While it is not unsafe to drink alcohol when taking Eliquis, you should stick to the recommended amounts.
Your doctor will provide an anticoagulant alert card for emergency purposes. You should make sure that you have this card with you at all times.
Taking a safe break
You can safely stop taking Eliquis for a short time to accommodate dental procedures and surgeries. However, you should only make this decision with the advice of your doctor. You can resume normal Eliquis dosage between 12-24 hours after your procedure. For vaccinations, no prior action is required. You may need to show your anticoagulant card to the doctor or nurse in the event that the injection site bleeps for longer than expected.
You may need to undertake certain lifestyle changes to increase your safety when taking Eliquis. You should avoid all contact sports that might lead to injury.
Final thought
The cost of this medication might be too high for low income and uninsured persons. If you are unable to access this prescription, you could consider filling in an Eliquis patient assistance form that is available through RxHope and RxAssist.