Apixaban

Pulmonary Embolism, Venous Thrombosis

Drug Status

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Government Approvals

US(FDA), UK(BNF)

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WHO Essential Medicine

NO

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Known Teratogen

NO

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Pharmaceutical Class

Factor Xa Inhibitor

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Controlled Drug Substance

NO

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Drug Ingredient

Apixaban

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Summary

  • Apixaban is primarily used to prevent blood clots in people with atrial fibrillation, a heart condition that increases the risk of stroke. It's also used after hip or knee replacement surgery to reduce the risk of blood clots forming in the legs or lungs.

  • Apixaban is a blood thinner that works by inhibiting a specific clotting factor in your blood, known as Factor Xa. This makes it harder for blood clots to form, thus reducing the risk of strokes and other clot-related complications.

  • Apixaban is taken orally, usually twice a day. The exact dosage and duration of treatment depend on the condition being treated. For instance, after hip replacement surgery, it's typically taken for about 35 days, and after knee replacement, for about 12 days.

  • Common side effects of Apixaban include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It can also cause headaches, insomnia, and unusual tiredness or weakness. Less common side effects include changes in appetite, mood swings, and cognitive changes like confusion or decreased alertness.

  • It's crucial not to stop taking Apixaban suddenly, as this can increase the risk of blood clots. The medicine can cause bleeding, especially in the stomach and intestines. Also, if you're allergic to Apixaban, have a history of severe bleeding, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should not take this medication.

Indications and Purpose

Directions for Use

Warnings and Precautions