Apixaban (Eliquis) is used to treat or prevent deep venous thrombosis, a condition in which harmful blood clots form in the blood vessels of the legs. These blood clots can travel to the lungs and can become lodged in the blood vessels of the lungs, causing a condition called pulmonary embolism. This medicine is used for several days after hip or knee replacement surgery while you are unable to walk. It is during this time that blood clots are most likely to form.

Apixaban (Eliquis) is also used to prevent stroke and blood clots in patients with certain heart rhythm problem (e.g., nonvalvular atrial fibrillation).

HOW TO TAKE

Apixaban (Eliquis) comes as a tablet to be taken by mouth. It is usually taken with or without food twice a day. When Apixaban (Eliquis) is taken to prevent DVT and PE after hip or knee replacement surgery, the first dose should be taken at least 12 to 24 hours after surgery. Apixaban (Eliquis) is usually taken for 35 days after a hip replacement surgery and for 12 days after knee replacement surgery. Take Apixaban (Eliquis) at around the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Apixaban (Eliquis) exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

If you are unable to swallow the tablets, you can crush and mix them with water, apple juice, or applesauce. Swallow the mixture right after you prepare it. Apixaban (Eliquis) can also be given in certain types of feeding tubes. Ask your doctor if you should take this medication in your feeding tube. Follow your doctor's directions carefully.

Continue to take Apixaban (Eliquis) even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Apixaban (Eliquis) without talking to your doctor. If you stop taking Apixaban (Eliquis), your risk of a blood clot may increase.

MISSED DOSE

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

SIDE EFFECTS

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately or get emergency medical treatment:

bleeding gums; nosebleeds; heavy vaginal bleeding; red, pink, or brown urine; red or black, tarry stools; coughing up or vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds; swelling or joint pain; headache; rash; chest pain or tightness; swelling of the face or tongue; trouble breathing; wheezing; feeling dizzy or faint.

Apixaban (Eliquis) prevents blood from clotting normally, so it may take longer than usual for you to stop bleeding if you are cut or injured. This medication may also cause you to bruise or bleed more easily. Call your doctor right away if bleeding or bruising is unusual, severe, or cannot be controlled.

Apixaban (Eliquis) may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

STORAGE

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from light, excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).

Unneeded medications should be disposed of in special ways to ensure that pets, children, and other people cannot consume them. However, you should not flush this medication down the toilet. Instead, the best way to dispose of your medication is through a medicine take-back program.

Please remember, the information given above is a summary. Your doctor can provide more information about Apixaban (Eliquis). Do not share this medicine with the others who it was not prescribed for. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Do not store the medication with an end term of its storage.