Apixaban 5 mg tablets are a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) used to reduce clotting risk. Common uses include:
- Nonvalvular atrial fibrillation to lower stroke risk
- Treatment of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) and PE (pulmonary embolism)
- Prophylaxis to prevent DVT after hip or knee replacement
Typical dosing (your exact dose may differ based on your condition and health)
- Atrial fibrillation (nonvalvular): 5 mg twice daily. If you have two of the following (age ≥80, weight ≤60 kg, or creatinine ≥1.5 mg/dL), the dose is reduced to 2.5 mg twice daily.
- DVT/PE treatment: 10 mg twice daily for 7 days, then 5 mg twice daily (note: there isn’t a 10 mg tablet in all markets—two 5 mg tablets per dose can be used to make 10 mg).
- Prophylaxis after hip replacement: 2.5 mg twice daily for 35 days.
- Prophylaxis after knee replacement: 2.5 mg twice daily for 12 days.
Important safety and usage notes
- Bleeding risk: Apixaban “thins” blood and can cause serious bleeding. Seek medical help for unusual or heavy bleeding, severe headaches with neck stiffness, black/tarry stools, or coughing up blood.
- Contraindications and cautions: active major bleeding; significant liver disease with coagulopathy; severe kidney impairment in some scenarios; pregnancy (discuss with your clinician). Do not stop suddenly without talking to a clinician.
- Drug interactions: avoid or use with caution with certain drugs that affect clotting or apixaban levels (strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitors like ketoconazole, ritonavir, clarithromycin; or inducers like rifampin, carbamazepine). Tell your clinician about all medicines, including NSAIDs, other anticoagulants, and herbal supplements.
- Monitoring: unlike warfarin, you don’t need routine blood tests to monitor anticoagulation. Your clinician may order tests in special situations.
- Dosing during special situations: if you miss a dose, don’t double up unless your clinician instructs you. If you have kidney or liver issues, or are undergoing surgery, follow your doctor’s specific guidance.
If you want, tell me:
- What condition you’re treating (AFib, DVT/PE, or just post-surgery prophylaxis)
- Your age, weight, and kidney function (if you know them)
- Any other medicines you take
I can tailor the dosing info and safety considerations to your situation. And if you have a prescription, sharing the exact wording helps me confirm the intended dosing. Always confirm with a clinician or pharmacist before making changes.