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Apixaban is used to prevent serious blood clots from forming - learn more

Is there a Generic
for Eliquis?

Apixaban is the Generic Alternative to Eliquis

Using generic Eliquis (Apixaban) effectively is crucial for managing your health condition. Here's a guide on how to use this medication:

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How to Use Generic Eliquis (Apixaban)

Read Any Medication Information

Before you start taking generic Eliquis, it's essential to familiarize yourself with any drug information provided to you by your doctor as it will contain essential information about the medication, its uses, potential side effects, and precautions. Read any information carefully, and if you have any questions or concerns, ask your doctor or pharmacist for clarification and more information.

Dosage and Administration

Take apixaban (generic Eliquis) by mouth with or without food, as directed by your doctor. Typically, apixaban is taken twice daily, approximately every 12 hours. Follow your doctor's instructions precisely regarding when and how to take the medication.

If you find it challenging to swallow the tablet whole, you have the option to crush the tablet and mix it with water, apple juice, or applesauce. After mixing, take it right away. Ensure you follow this process correctly to maintain the medication's effectiveness..

Dosage Adjustment

Your prescribed dosage of generic Eliquis (Apixaban) is determined based on various factors, including your medical condition, age, weight, kidney function, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. It's crucial to communicate all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products, to your doctor and pharmacist. This information helps them make informed decisions about your treatment.

Length of Treatment

If you are taking Apixaban to prevent blood clots after surgery, the duration of your treatment will depend on the type of surgery you had. Your doctor will provide specific instructions on how long you should continue taking the medication. It's essential to adhere to this guidance closely.

Do Not Stop Abruptly

Do not discontinue taking generic Eliquis / Apixaban without consulting your doctor first. Stopping this medication suddenly may lead to adverse effects, and some conditions may worsen. Your doctor will provide guidance on when and how to stop taking Eliquis if necessary.

Ensure an Adequate Supply

To prevent interruptions in your treatment, make sure you do not run out of Apixaban. Plan ahead and order your refills early to ensure you have an adequate supply of pills. It's crucial to maintain a consistent dosage schedule.

Consistency is Key

To maximize the benefits of generic Eliquis, take it regularly at the same times each day. Consistency in your dosing schedule is essential to achieve the desired therapeutic effects.

Remember, Eliquis and its generic alternative Apixaban are prescription medications, and its use should be closely monitored by your healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication regimen, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor or pharmacist for guidance and support. Your health and well-being are of paramount importance.

Common Side Effects of Apixaban, the Generic Alternative to Eliquis

While apixaban is as effective as the name-brand version, and is an effective medication for various medical conditions, it may have potential side effects. It's essential to be aware of these side effects and take prompt action if you experience any of them. Here's what you need to know:

Common Side Effects

Some individuals may experience nausea, easy bruising, or minor bleeding, such as nosebleeds or bleeding from cuts, when taking name-brand or generic Eliquis. If you encounter any of these effects and they persist or worsen, it's important to inform your doctor or pharmacist promptly. These common side effects are generally manageable.

Balancing Benefits and Risks

Your healthcare provider has prescribed Apixaban because they have determined that the benefits of the medication outweigh the potential risks of side effects. It's important to remember that many people using this medication do not experience serious side effects.

Risk of Serious Bleeding

Generic Eliquis (Apixaban) can affect blood clotting proteins, potentially leading to serious bleeding. You should immediately inform your doctor if you notice any signs of serious bleeding, including frequent or uncontrolled nosebleeds, unusual tiredness, weakness, pain, swelling, discomfort, or prolonged bleeding from cuts or gums, heavy or prolonged menstrual flow, pink or dark urine, coughing up blood, vomiting that is bloody or looks like coffee grounds, severe headaches, dizziness, fainting, bloody or black stools, or difficulty swallowing.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

In the rare event of very serious bleeding, you should seek immediate medical help. Signs of very serious bleeding may include vision changes, confusion, trouble speaking, weakness on one side of the body. It's crucial not to ignore these symptoms.

Allergic Reactions

While very rare, a serious allergic reaction to Eliquis can occur. If you notice symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek medical assistance immediately.

Not a Complete List

The information provided here does not encompass all possible side effects of Apixaban. If you notice any effects that are not listed above, you should contact your doctor or pharmacist to discuss them.

Reporting Side Effects

If you experience any side effects while taking Apixaban, it's advisable to inform your healthcare provider promptly. You may also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or through their website at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Your health and well-being are a top priority, and it's essential to stay informed about potential side effects while using any medication. If you have concerns or questions about Eliquis or its side effects, don't hesitate to consult with your healthcare provider for guidance and support.

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Precautions

Taking Name-Brand or Generic Eliquis (Apixaban) requires careful consideration of certain precautions to ensure your safety and optimize the effectiveness of the medication. Here are some important precautions to keep in mind:

Allergies and Inactive Ingredients

Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to apixaban or have any other allergies. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications. It's essential to discuss any potential allergies with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Medical History

Prior to using Eliquis, provide your doctor or pharmacist with your medical history, especially if you have a history of:

  • Liver disease
  • Kidney disease
  • Bleeding problems (e.g., gastrointestinal or brain bleeding)
  • Blood disorders (such as anemia, hemophilia, thrombocytopenia)
  • Recent major injury or surgery
  • Stroke
  • Antiphospholipid syndrome (a clotting disorder)

Surgery and Medical/Dental Procedures

Before undergoing surgery or any medical/dental procedures, particularly those involving spinal puncture or spinal/epidural anesthesia, notify your healthcare provider or dentist about your use of Eliquis. Your doctor or dentist may advise you to discontinue taking the medication temporarily. Always seek specific instructions on when to stop or resume your medication.

Alcohol Consumption

Eliquis may increase the risk of stomach bleeding. Therefore, it is advisable to limit alcoholic beverages while using this medication. If you have questions about the safe amount of alcohol you can consume, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Risk of Bleeding

Apixaban can lead to heavy bleeding. To minimize the chances of getting cut, bruised, or injured, exercise caution when handling sharp objects like razors and nail cutters. Avoid engaging in activities that may result in physical contact or injury, such as contact sports. Consider using an electric razor when shaving and a soft toothbrush when brushing your teeth. In the event of a fall or injury, especially if you hit your head, contact your doctor immediately. Medical evaluation may be necessary.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

During pregnancy, Apixaban should only be used when it is clearly needed. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown whether this medication passes into breast milk, and therefore, breastfeeding is not recommended while using Eliquis. Consult your healthcare provider before making any decisions regarding breastfeeding.

Taking Eliquis or its generic alternative Apixaban requires diligence in adhering to these precautions to ensure both your safety and the efficacy of the medication. If you have any concerns or questions about these precautions or Eliquis in general, don't hesitate to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance and clarification. Your well-being is of utmost importance.

Drug Interactions - Eliquis / Apixaban

Understanding potential drug interactions is essential when taking Eliquis (apixaban) to ensure the medication's effectiveness and your safety. Here are some important considerations:

Impact on Medication Effectiveness

Drug interactions have the potential to alter how your medications work or increase the risk of serious side effects. While this document provides valuable information, it does not encompass all possible drug interactions. It is essential to maintain a comprehensive list of all the products you use, including prescription and nonprescription drugs, as well as herbal products. Share this list with your doctor and pharmacist to facilitate their assessment of potential interactions.

Consult Your Healthcare Provider

Before making any changes to your medication regimen, whether starting, stopping, or adjusting dosages, it is imperative to seek your doctor's approval. Your healthcare provider possesses the expertise to determine the most appropriate course of action.

Drugs That May Interact with Eliquis

Some products that may interact with Eliquis include:

Medications Affecting Eliquis Removal

Certain medications can impact the removal of apixaban from your body, potentially affecting its effectiveness. Examples of such drugs include certain azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole, posaconazole), conivaptan, HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., lopinavir), rifamycins (e.g., rifabutin), ritonavir, St. John's wort, and drugs used to treat seizures (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin), among others.

Aspirin and Bleeding Risk

Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding when used in conjunction with Eliquis. However, if your doctor has specifically instructed you to take low-dose aspirin for heart attack or stroke prevention (typically 81-162 milligrams a day), it is essential to continue taking it unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider. Always seek your doctor's or pharmacist's guidance for additional details regarding your aspirin regimen.

Understanding and managing drug interactions is a crucial aspect of your healthcare when taking Eliquis. By maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider and providing a comprehensive list of the products you use, you can ensure the safe and effective use of this medication. Your health and well-being are paramount, and your healthcare team is there to support you in making informed decisions about your treatment.

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Overdose

Common symptoms of an overdose of apixaban include black, bloody, or tarry stool, pink or dark urine, and prolonged or unusual bleeding.

In the case of any serious symptoms following an overdose of apixaban, including breathing trouble or losing consciousness, call 911. In the case of less-severe symptoms, contact poison control. In the United States, your local poison control center can be contacted at


Additional Information

Here is additional information on using and storing Eliquis (apixaban) to ensure its safe and effective use:

1. Do Not Share Medication:

It's important not to share Eliquis with others. This medication is specifically prescribed for your medical condition, and sharing it with someone else may not be appropriate for their health needs.

2. Medical and Lab Tests:

While you are taking Eliquis, your doctor may recommend certain lab or medical tests, such as hematocrit/hemoglobin or red blood cell count, to monitor your response to the medication. It's essential to keep all scheduled medical and lab appointments to ensure your treatment remains on track. Consult your doctor for more details about these tests.

3. Missed Dose:

If you happen to miss a dose of Eliquis, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, it's better to skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up on the missed one.

4. Storage:

Store Eliquis at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Avoid storing it in the bathroom, as the humidity and temperature fluctuations there may affect the medication's stability. If you are instructed to crush the tablet and mix it with water, apple juice, or applesauce, ensure that you use the mixture within 4 hours of preparation to maintain its effectiveness. Keep all medications, including Eliquis, out of the reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion or exposure.

5. Proper Medication Disposal:

Do not dispose of medications by flushing them down the toilet or pouring them into a drain unless explicitly instructed to do so by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Properly discard Eliquis when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for guidance on safe and environmentally responsible medication disposal.


By following these guidelines for using and storing Apixaban, you can help ensure the medication's effectiveness, maintain your health and safety, and minimize potential risks associated with improper medication handling and disposal. Your well-being is our priority, and we're here to support you in making the most of your treatment.