Clinical Overview
Apixaban is an oral, highly selective, reversible direct factor Xa inhibitor (DOAC) on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. It inhibits free and clot-bound factor Xa as well as prothrombinase activity, directly decreasing thrombin generation and thrombus development without requiring antithrombin III. Does not require routine INR monitoring. Indicated for stroke prevention in non-valvular atrial fibrillation, treatment and secondary prevention of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), and DVT prophylaxis following hip or knee arthroplasty.
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
Verified Clinical References
Usage Guidelines
Take orally twice daily (every 12 hours) with a glass of water, with or without food. Do not skip doses due to short half-life. Specific reversal agent (andexanet alfa) exists for life-threatening bleeds.
General Administration Advice: Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage, frequency, and treatment course. For oral medications, swallow with sufficient water. Never stop antibiotics, psychiatric medications, or antihypertensives abruptly without clinical direction.
Possible Side Effects
Common: Minor bleeding, contusion, hematuria, epistaxis, anemia. Rare/Severe: Boxed warnings: Premature discontinuation increases the risk of thrombotic events; spinal/epidural hematoma in neuraxial anesthesia resulting in permanent paralysis; major fatal hemorrhage.
*Note: Individual physiological responses vary. While many patients experience few or no side effects, notify your treating physician if adverse reactions persist or if hypersensitivity (angioedema, skin rash, dyspnea) occurs.
Precautions & Warnings
Black box warnings: (1) Premature discontinuation increases the risk of stroke; (2) Spinal/epidural hematoma risk with lumbar puncture or epidural anesthesia. Contraindicated in active pathological bleeding and severe hepatic impairment. Dose reduction criteria (2.5 mg BID) apply if at least two of: age >= 80 years, weight <= 60 kg, or serum creatinine >= 1.5 mg/dL.
Schedule H (Prescription Required)
This medication is scheduled under statutory drug regulatory frameworks (CDSCO / Drugs & Cosmetics Rules). Dispensing requires a valid medical prescription from a registered medical practitioner. Self-medication or unsupervised dosage adjustment carries significant clinical risks.
Medical Disclaimer: Statutory Clinical Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational and price-transparency purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a registered medical practitioner or qualified cardiologist/pharmacist before initiating, altering, or substituting any cardiovascular medication.