What is the standard starting dose of eliquis for afib?

Standard Starting Dose for Afib

Eliquis (apixaban) starts at 5 mg taken orally twice daily for most patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (Afib) to reduce stroke and systemic embolism risk.[1][2]

When to Use the Lower 2.5 mg Dose

Drop to 2.5 mg twice daily if a patient meets at least two of these criteria: age 80 or older, body weight 60 kg or less, or serum creatinine 1.5 mg/dL or higher.[1][2]

How Dosing Compares to Other Conditions

For Afib, it's fixed at 5 mg or 2.5 mg BID without initial adjustment period, unlike deep vein thrombosis treatment which starts higher (10 mg BID for 7 days) then steps down.[1]

Missed Dose Instructions

Take the missed dose as soon as possible on the same day, then resume the regular schedule. Skip it entirely if the next dose is within 6 hours.[1][2]

Renal or Hepatic Adjustments

No dose change solely for mild-to-moderate kidney impairment; avoid in severe cases (CrCl <15 mL/min) or end-stage renal disease. Use caution with moderate liver issues; contraindicated in severe hepatic impairment.[1]

Sources
[1]: Eliquis Prescribing Information (BMS/Pfizer)
[2]: Drugs.com - Eliquis Dosage