Apixaban

About Apixaban

Apixaban is a medication that thins your blood and prevents clumps (clots) from forming. Clots can block blood vessels and reduce blood supply to that body region.

Blood clots can cause a stroke, heart attack, or block vessels in the lungs (pulmonary embolism) and legs (deep vein thrombosis).

Apixaban can also be given in heart failure, after surgery, or in arrhythmias due to the increased risk of clotting.

Useful information

• Apixaban increases your risk of bleeding. You may therefore be advised to not participate in contact sports to prevent excessive bleeding should injuries occur.

  You can participate in non-contact sports such as cycling, tennis, riding, and athletics. Wear protective devices such as helmets and pads when necessary.

• It is recommended that you postpone piercings and tattoos when taking apixaban.

How does Apixaban work?

Clotting of blood is due to the action of several factors and proteins. Apixaban interferes with the activity of a clotting chemical known as factor Xa. Apixaban also affects platelet aggregation.

What are the side-effects I may experience?

You may experience:

• Nose bleeds

• Bleeding gums

• Heavy menstrual periods

• Dizziness

• Nausea

• Diarrhea

• Abdominal pain

• Blood in urine and stools Contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately if you notice blood in your urine or stool.

You should not abruptly stop taking any medications. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor if any side effects of medications become unbearable.

Are there any medications and foods I should avoid?

• You may eat normally while taking apixaban.

• You should inform your doctor if you have stomach ulcers or hemophilia.

• Inform your doctor if you have pending surgery.

• You should inform your doctor or pharmacist before taking aspirin, celecoxib, diclofenac, ibuprofen, and most painkillers. It is recommended to take paracetamol for pain management if you are taking apixaban.

I forgot a dose. What should I do?

If you forget to take your prescription, take it as soon as you remember.

If you miss a dose, don’t take a double dose.

If your next dose is approaching, skip the missed dose and take the next one.

Can I drive or operate machinery?

You may feel dizzy when taking apixaban. Don’t drive or operate machinery when taking apixaban.

Should I be bothered about possible addiction or dependence?

Apixaban isn’t addictive.

Will my sexual performance, fertility or contraceptive be impaired?

Apixaban has no effect on sexual performance or the effectiveness of contraceptives.

Apixaban has not been proven to affect fertility.

Can I use this medication if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Apixaban isn’t recommended for use during pregnancy or when breastfeeding. The safety of apixaban in pregnancy and during breastfeeding has not been established.