Eliquis

Tablet · Pfizer / BMS
PRESCRIPTION MEDICINE

Eliquis is a tablet made by Pfizer / BMS that contains Apixaban. Apixaban is a blood thinner (anticoagulant): prevents and treats blood clots and stroke in irregular heartbeat.

Ingredient (salt)Amount
Apixabansee pack

What it is used for

Prevents and treats blood clots and stroke in irregular heartbeat.

How it works

A direct oral anticoagulant (factor Xa blocker) for atrial fibrillation and clots, with somewhat lower bleeding risk.

How to take it

Usually 2.5 to 5 mg twice a day, with or without food.

Common side effects

  • Bruising
  • Nosebleeds
  • Anaemia

Get medical help straight away if

  • Serious or unusual bleeding
  • Head injury

Be careful

Increases bleeding risk; do not stop without your doctor.

Other medicines and interactions

Same cautions as rivaroxaban: NSAIDs, antiplatelets, azole antifungals, rifampicin and some anti-epileptics.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Not used in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Common questions

What is Eliquis?

Eliquis is a tablet by Pfizer / BMS containing Apixaban.

What is Eliquis used for?

Prevents and treats blood clots and stroke in irregular heartbeat.

How should I take Eliquis?

Usually 2.5 to 5 mg twice a day, with or without food. Always follow the dose your doctor or the pack gives.

What are the side effects of Eliquis?

Common side effects include: Bruising, nosebleeds, anaemia. Get medical help straight away for: Serious or unusual bleeding, head injury.

Does Eliquis need a prescription?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Can I take Eliquis in pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Not used in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

What are the substitutes for Eliquis?

We have no other brand with exactly the same composition and strength in our list yet. Ask your pharmacist for an equivalent.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Composition checked against pack details from large Indian online pharmacies. Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.