What is Eliquis: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

How to take Eliquis

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

• This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.

• Take Eliquis tablets twice per day.

• Eliquis can be taken with or without food.

• If you are not able to swallow the tablets whole, ask the prescriber for directions on crushing the tablets.

  • Eliquis tablets may be crushed and mixed in water, apple juice, or applesauce. 

  • Take the mixture immediately.

• For use with a nasogastric feeding tube (NGT), ask the prescriber for directions.

  • Eliquis tablets can be crushed and mixed with 60 mL of water for administration through a nasogastric tube (NGT).

• It’s hazardous to miss Eliquis doses. Refill the prescription before you run out of pills.

• Store Eliquis in a closed container at room temperature.

What to do if you miss a dose of Eliquis

• Do not skip Eliquis doses.

• Ask the doctor for specific directions about what to do if a dose is missed.

• According to the manufacturer, missed doses should be taken as soon as they’re remembered on the same day. 

• Do not take two doses at the same time.

• After taking the missed dose, resume the twice-daily dosing.

Eliquis contraindications

• This medicine is not right for everyone. 

• Do not use it if you have had an allergic reaction to apixaban or you have active abnormal bleeding.

Eliquis warnings

• Tell any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you that you are using this medicine.

• Your doctor will do lab tests regularly to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

• Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. With your doctor's supervision, you may need to stop using this medicine several days before you have surgery or medical tests.

• Do not stop using this medicine suddenly without asking your doctor. You might have a higher risk of stroke or blood clots for a short time after you stop using this medicine.

• Eliquis can cause serious problems:

  • This medicine increases your risk for bleeding that can become serious or life-threatening if not controlled. Familiarize yourself with the signs and symptoms of blood loss and tell a doctor immediately or go to an emergency room if they occur.

  • You may also bruise easily, and it may take longer than usual for bleeding to stop. 

  • This medicine may increase your risk for a hematoma (blood clot) in your spine or back if you undergo an epidural or spinal puncture. This could lead to paralysis. Tell your doctor if you ever had spine problems or back surgery.

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• Tell your doctor if you have:

  • Kidney disease

  • Liver disease

  • A history of bleeding problems

  • Antiphospholipid syndrome, an autoimmune disease that can cause blood clots

  • An artificial heart valve

  • Any other medical conditions

• Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. Never share Eliquis with anyone.

Eliquis interactions

• To avoid potentially hazardous drug interactions, tell the prescribing healthcare provider about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements you use before taking Eliquis.

• Tell other healthcare providers you are using this medicine before they prescribe new medications.

• Some medicines may increase the risk of bleeding or stroke when combined with Eliquis. Tell your doctor if you are also taking: 

  • Blood thinners

  • Antidepressants such as SSRIs and SNRIs

  • NSAIDs such as ibuprofen

  • Aspirin or aspirin-containing products

  • The anticonvulsants carbamazepine or phenytoin

  • The antifungal drugs ketoconazole or itraconazole

  • The tuberculosis drug rifampin

  • The antiviral drug ritonavir

  • The herbal supplement St. John’s wort

Find more detailed information about Eliquis interactions to avoid here.