Eliquis 5 mg Tablets Tablet (Apixaban) — Uses, Dosage & NAFDAC

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

Apixaban is a blood thinner that works by blocking a substance in your blood called Factor Xa, which helps blood clots form. By blocking it, the drug keeps your blood flowing smoothly and prevents dangerous clots from forming.

What is it used for?

Prevention and treatment of blood clots in the legs or lungs (deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism)prevention of stroke in people with irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation)prevention of blood clots after hip or knee replacement surgery

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Stroke & Neurological Blood Clots & Anticoagulation

How it works

Inhibits Factor Xa (activated Factor X) in the coagulation cascade, preventing the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin and thereby reducing thrombus formation.

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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How to take this drug

The usual adult dose is one 5 mg tablet taken twice daily — morning and evening, roughly 12 hours apart. You can take it with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with water. Your doctor may prescribe 2.5 mg twice daily depending on your age, weight, or kidney function. Never change your dose without your doctor's approval.

What if I Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember on the same day. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Never take two doses at once to make up for the one you missed.

What to watch out for

This is a strictly prescription medicine — do not buy from roadside sellers or open markets, and only use it under a doctor's supervision. Do not stop taking apixaban suddenly without your doctor's advice, as this can increase your risk of stroke or blood clots. Always carry a note or tell any doctor or dentist you visit that you are on a blood thinner, especially before any procedure.

Common Side Effects

Bleeding more easily from cuts or bruises
nosebleeds
bleeding gums when brushing your teeth
feeling tired or weak
mild stomach upset or nausea

Serious Side Effects

Heavy or unusual bleeding that does not stop (including blood in urine
black or bloody stool
or coughing up blood) — go to the hospital immediately. Severe headache
dizziness
or weakness on one side of the body which could mean bleeding in the brain — this is a medical emergency. Signs of a serious allergic reaction like swelling of the face
difficulty breathing
or severe rash.

Drug Interactions

Avoid taking apixaban with other blood thinners like warfarin or heparin as this greatly increases your risk of dangerous bleeding. Be careful with painkillers like ibuprofen and diclofenac (Voltaren) as they can also increase bleeding risk. Alcohol can increase the blood-thinning effect and raise your chance of bleeding, so limit or avoid alcohol while on this medication.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Apixaban is not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — it may cause serious bleeding in the unborn baby or nursing infant. Consult your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to apixaban or any ingredient in the tablet
anyone currently experiencing active bleeding (such as a bleeding ulcer)
people with severe liver disease
people taking other strong blood thinners
and anyone scheduled for surgery should inform their doctor well in advance as the drug may need to be stopped temporarily.

How to Store

Store at room temperature below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. Keep it in its original packaging and far away from the reach of children.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.

Eliquis 5 mg Tablets