Apixaban

Blood thinner (anticoagulant)
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Apixaban is a blood thinner (anticoagulant) found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Eliquis. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

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.

Brands of Apixaban (1)

Eliquis

Common questions

What is Apixaban used for?

Prevents and treats blood clots and stroke in irregular heartbeat.

How does Apixaban work?

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

How should I take Apixaban?

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

What are the side effects of Apixaban?

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

Does Apixaban interact with other medicines?

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

Is Apixaban safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Not used in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Does Apixaban need a prescription in India?

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

Which brands contain Apixaban?

Eliquis.

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.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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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.