Apixaban 5mg

Apixaban 5mg — Uses and Benefits

Apixaban 5mg belongs to a group of medicines called anticoagulants, which help prevent blood clots from forming or growing larger in the body.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• To reduce the risk of stroke and blood clots in people with an irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation) not caused by a heart valve problem
• To treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE)
• To prevent DVT and PE from happening again after initial treatment
• To prevent blood clots after certain major surgeries like hip or knee replacement

HOW IT WORKS

• It blocks a clotting factor called Factor Xa in the blood
• This slows down the blood's ability to form clots
• It helps keep blood flowing smoothly through veins and arteries

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller and does not treat pain or inflammation
• It does not dissolve existing large clots quickly like emergency clot-busting drugs
• It is not used for minor cuts or routine bleeding control
• It should not be used without a doctor's prescription for self-diagnosed conditions

How to Use Apixaban 5mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually twice a day
• Swallow the tablet with water, with or without food
• Do not crush or break the tablet unless your doctor has told you it is safe to do so
• Take it at the same times each day to maintain a steady level in your body
• Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without talking to your doctor, as this can increase the risk of clotting

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose 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
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, tell your doctor

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat, light, and moisture
• Keep the medicine in its original packaging
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use the medicine after the expiry date printed on the pack

Apixaban 5mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Easy bruising
• Minor bleeding from gums or nose
• Nausea
• Anaemia (low red blood cell count)

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Rash or itching
• Low blood pressure
• Dizziness
• Abnormal liver function tests

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Blood in urine or stool, or black tarry stools
• Coughing up blood or vomiting blood
• Heavy or unusual bleeding that does not stop
• Signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing
• Sudden severe headache, weakness, or confusion (possible sign of bleeding in the brain)
• Unusual bruising over large areas of the body

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Apixaban 5mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to apixaban or any of its ingredients
• Have active, serious bleeding
• Have a condition or disease that carries a high risk of major bleeding, such as certain stomach ulcers
• Have severe liver disease

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney or liver problems
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have had a recent surgery, injury, or upcoming dental procedure
• Have a bleeding disorder or history of stomach ulcers
• Are elderly or have low body weight

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other blood thinners or anticoagulants like warfarin or heparin
• Aspirin or other NSAID painkillers like ibuprofen
• Certain antifungal or antiviral medicines
• Some antiseizure and antidepressant medicines
• Herbal supplements like St. John's Wort

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to limit alcohol as it may increase the risk of bleeding; discuss this with your doctor.

Will I need regular blood tests while on this medicine?

Unlike some older blood thinners, routine blood monitoring is usually not required, but your doctor may check kidney function periodically.

Can I stop taking this medicine once I feel better?

• No, you should not stop without your doctor's advice, as stopping suddenly can raise the risk of dangerous blood clots.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.