Eliquis (apixaban): what it does and why it matters

Eliquis is a prescription blood thinner used to lower the risk of stroke in people with atrial fibrillation and to treat or prevent blood clots (DVT/PE). It works by blocking factor Xa, a key step in clot formation. That may sound technical, but the practical point is simple: Eliquis helps stop dangerous clots while being easier to take than older drugs like warfarin, since it needs no routine INR testing.

How Eliquis is taken and common doses

Standard dosing depends on the condition. For non-valvular atrial fibrillation the usual dose is 5 mg twice daily. Dose reduction to 2.5 mg twice daily may be needed if a patient meets at least two of these: age 80 or older, body weight 60 kg or less, or serum creatinine 1.5 mg/dL or higher. For acute treatment of DVT or PE, many guidelines start with 10 mg twice daily for seven days, then switch to 5 mg twice daily. For extended prevention after initial treatment, 2.5 mg twice daily is sometimes used, but follow your prescriber's plan.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember on the same day; do not double up. Take Eliquis at the same times every day to keep levels steady.

Safety, interactions and buying Eliquis online

Bleeding is the main risk. Watch for unusual bruising, blood in urine or stool, heavy nosebleeds, or long bleeding after cuts. Tell your doctor about any history of bleeding, recent surgery, or severe liver disease. Kidney function matters: your prescriber will check creatinine before and during treatment.

Drug interactions are important. Strong inhibitors of both CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein (for example, certain antifungals and HIV protease inhibitors) can raise Eliquis levels and increase bleeding risk. Strong inducers (like rifampin or some seizure drugs) can lower its effect. Always tell every provider and pharmacist what else you take, including supplements like St. John’s wort.

There is an approved reversal agent (andexanet alfa) for serious bleeding, but availability varies. Hospitals use different protocols, so carry an anticoagulation card or wear a medical ID that lists Eliquis.

Thinking of buying Eliquis online? You must have a valid prescription. Choose licensed pharmacies that require a prescription, display clear contact info, and use secure payment and shipping. Avoid sites offering Eliquis without a script or at unbelievably low prices — those are often counterfeit or unsafe. If you import medication, check your country’s rules and only use pharmacies that follow legal import procedures.

Quick practical checklist: get baseline kidney and liver tests, keep a list of all medicines, never stop Eliquis suddenly without medical advice, and use blood-thinning precautions (care with razors, avoid contact sports). When in doubt, call your prescriber — small risks are often easy to manage if you act early.