ELIQUIS 2.5 TABLET

🩸🛡️💊 Apixaban 2.5mg Tablet: Targeted Anticoagulant for Clot Prevention & Stroke Protection

Apixaban 2.5mg is an oral anticoagulant (blood thinner) belonging to the class of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), specifically a Factor Xa inhibitor. It is widely used for the prevention of blood clots, stroke, and systemic embolism in patients at risk. With its predictable effect, fixed dosing, and no need for routine INR monitoring, Apixaban has become a preferred choice over traditional anticoagulants like warfarin in many clinical scenarios.

The 2.5mg dose is typically used for prevention, long-term maintenance, and in patients requiring dose adjustment due to age, kidney function, or body weight.

🔬 Mechanism of Action

Apixaban works by selectively inhibiting Factor Xa, a key enzyme in the blood coagulation cascade. By blocking Factor Xa:

• It prevents the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin

• Reduces fibrin clot formation

• Prevents growth and formation of harmful clots

This targeted mechanism allows Apixaban to act quickly and consistently in controlling clot formation, reducing the risk of stroke and other thromboembolic events.

📌 Indications and Uses

Apixaban 2.5mg is prescribed for:

1. 🧠 Prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) who meet at least two of the following:

   • Age ≥80 years

   • Body weight ≤60 kg

   • Serum creatinine ≥1.5 mg/dL

2. 🦵 Prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) following:

   • Hip replacement surgery

   • Knee replacement surgery

3. 🔁 Secondary prevention of recurrent DVT and pulmonary embolism (PE) after initial treatment

💊 Dosage and Administration

• Standard dose: 2.5mg taken twice daily

• Can be taken with or without food

• Do not crush or split the tablet unless instructed

• Should be taken at the same time each day to maintain steady anticoagulant effect

⚠️ Precautions and Warnings

• Contraindicated in:

  • Active major bleeding

  • Severe hepatic impairment

  • Prosthetic heart valves

• Use with caution in:

  • Elderly patients

  • Severe renal impairment (eGFR <15 ml/min)

  • Concurrent use with other anticoagulants or antiplatelets

Apixaban should not be stopped abruptly, as this increases the risk of stroke or clot formation. If necessary, switch under medical supervision.

🤒 Side Effects

Common:

• Minor bleeding (gums, nosebleeds, bruising)

• Nausea

• Anemia

Serious:

• Major bleeding (GI bleeding, intracranial hemorrhage)

• Allergic reactions

• Liver enzyme elevations (rare)

Seek immediate medical help for signs of serious bleeding: black/tarry stools, vomiting blood, prolonged bleeding, or dizziness.

🔄 Drug Interactions

• Caution with:

  • Strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir)

  • Strong inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine)

• Use caution with NSAIDs, antiplatelets, or other drugs that increase bleeding risk

🧊 Storage Instructions

• Store at 15–30°C

• Keep tablets in original packaging

• Protect from moisture, and keep out of reach of children

📝 Conclusion

Apixaban 2.5mg tablet provides safe, effective, and convenient clot prevention therapy for patients at risk of stroke or thromboembolism. Its fixed-dose, minimal monitoring, and favorable bleeding profile make it a top choice in atrial fibrillation, post-surgical DVT prophylaxis, and recurrent clot prevention—helping reduce the burden of blood clots while maintaining patient quality of life.

Note: This information is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.