What is the dosage of eliquis for dvt prevention?

Standard Dosage for DVT Prevention After Hip or Knee Replacement

Eliquis (apixaban) is approved at 2.5 mg twice daily for preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients undergoing elective hip or knee replacement surgery.[1][2]

Take the first dose 12 to 24 hours after surgery. Continue for 12 days after knee replacement or 35 days after hip replacement. Swallow tablets whole with or without food.

How Dosage Differs for DVT Treatment

For treating acute DVT (not just prevention), the dose starts at 10 mg twice daily for 7 days, then drops to 5 mg twice daily long-term.[1][2] Prevention dosing is always the lower 2.5 mg strength.

Adjustments for Kidney Issues or Weight

Reduce to 2.5 mg twice daily for prevention if two of these apply: age 80+, body weight ≤60 kg, or serum creatinine ≥1.5 mg/dL. No routine adjustment for mild kidney impairment alone.[1][2]

Avoid in severe kidney failure (CrCl <15 mL/min) or on dialysis.

Common Patient Questions on Taking It

• Missed dose? Take as soon as possible if within 6 hours; skip if closer to next dose.
  
• Switching from other blood thinners? Specific timing rules apply—check with a doctor.
  
• Duration beyond surgery? Not standard; extended use needs risk-benefit assessment.
  
  

Why This Dosing and Key Warnings

The 2.5 mg dose balances clot prevention with bleeding risk, based on AMPLIFY and ADVANCE trials showing superiority to enoxaparin post-surgery.[2] Bleeding is the main risk—report unusual bruising or blood in stool/urine immediately. Not for patients with active bleed, liver disease, or certain valve issues.[1]

[1]: Eliquis Prescribing Information (BMS/Pfizer)
[2]: FDA Label for Apixaban
[3]: Drugs.com - Eliquis Dosing