Eliquis 2.5mg Tablet 10'S

Introduction About ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET

Eliquis 2.5mg Tablet (apixaban) is an oral medication used in specific patient groups who require careful management of blood clot risk. This medicine is especially chosen for people who may be more sensitive to standard anticoagulant doses, such as older adults, those with lower body weight, or individuals with reduced kidney function. Eliquis provides a tailored approach to helping these patients maintain healthy blood flow and reduce their risk of serious health issues related to clotting.

Eliquis 2.5mg is mainly used to help lower the chance of stroke and blood clots moving through the body in people with a heart rhythm condition called nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. It is also used to help prevent blood clots after hip or knee replacement surgery and to reduce the risk of recurrent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) in certain patients. Clinical studies have shown that Eliquis can be effective in these situations, especially when the 2.5mg dose is matched to the right patient.

The usual dose is one 2.5mg tablet taken by mouth twice a day, with or without food. For those who have had hip replacement surgery, treatment usually lasts up to 38 days; after knee replacement, it is up to 14 days. Always follow your doctor’s instructions for starting and stopping Eliquis. If you have trouble swallowing tablets, Eliquis can be crushed and mixed with water, apple juice, or applesauce, or given through certain feeding tubes as directed.

Important precautions include taking Eliquis exactly as prescribed and not missing doses. The main risk is bleeding, which can be increased in some people or when combined with other medications that affect blood clotting. Eliquis should not be used if you have active bleeding or a prosthetic heart valve. It is not recommended during pregnancy due to possible risks to the baby, and breastfeeding while taking Eliquis is generally not advised as apixaban may pass into breast milk. Common side effects include minor bleeding, easy bruising, anemia, and nausea. If you notice severe bleeding or other concerning symptoms, contact your doctor right away. Always check with your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your needs.

Uses Of ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET

• Reduces risk of stroke and systemic embolism in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation
• Prevents blood clots after hip or knee replacement surgery
• Prevents recurrent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) in appropriate patients

Benefits of ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET

Stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation

Eliquis 2.5mg Tablet is commonly prescribed for people with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AFib), a heart rhythm condition that can increase the chance of blood clots forming in the heart. These clots might move to the brain and cause a stroke. Eliquis helps to support smooth blood flow and reduce the risk of stroke in suitable individuals. The 2.5mg dose is especially considered for patients who are older, have lower body weight, or have impaired kidney function, as determined by their healthcare provider.

Blood clot prevention after surgery

After major surgeries like hip or knee replacement, there is a higher risk of blood clots forming in the legs or lungs. Eliquis 2.5mg Tablet is used to help lower this risk by supporting healthy blood circulation during recovery. It is started shortly after surgery and continued for a specific period, as advised by your doctor.

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary embolism (PE) prevention

Eliquis 2.5mg Tablet is indicated to help prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which are blood clots that can form in the deep veins of the legs. If these clots break free, they may travel to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism (PE). Eliquis supports the reduction of both DVT and PE risk, especially for patients who have recently had hip or knee replacement surgery.

Nonvalvular atrial fibrillation management

For people with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, Eliquis 2.5mg Tablet provides a way to help manage the risk of stroke and systemic embolism. This medication is part of a broader approach to heart health and is tailored for specific patient groups, such as older adults or those with certain health conditions, to help maintain effectiveness and safety.

Hip and knee replacement blood clot risk reduction

Patients who have undergone hip or knee replacement surgery are at increased risk for developing blood clots due to reduced movement and changes in blood flow. Eliquis 2.5mg Tablet is used to help support healthy blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots after surgery. The recommended duration of use depends on the type of surgery and is determined by your healthcare provider.

How ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET Works

Mechanism of Action: Factor Xa Inhibition

Eliquis 2.5mg Tablet (apixaban) works by selectively and reversibly inhibiting Factor Xa, a key enzyme in the blood clotting cascade. Factor Xa acts as a catalyst to convert prothrombin into thrombin—the final step that triggers fibrin formation and clot development. By binding directly to Factor Xa’s active site, apixaban reduces the enzyme’s activity, slowing down the clotting process without requiring other proteins like antithrombin III. This targeted inhibition helps maintain smoother blood flow in individuals at risk of clot-related complications.

How Eliquis Prevents Blood Clots

Apixaban’s inhibition of Factor Xa disrupts the coagulation cascade, which is essential for clot formation. When Factor Xa is blocked, the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin is significantly reduced. Thrombin is responsible for transforming fibrinogen into fibrin—the mesh-like substance that forms clots. By curtailing thrombin generation, Eliquis helps minimize fibrin production, thereby reducing the likelihood of abnormal blood clots forming in vessels. This mechanism supports healthy circulation, particularly in high-risk scenarios like atrial fibrillation or post-surgery recovery.

Reducing Thrombin Generation with Eliquis

Thrombin is a central enzyme in clot formation, and its overproduction can lead to dangerous thrombotic events. Eliquis 2.5mg Tablet directly addresses this by suppressing thrombin generation through Factor Xa inhibition. Studies show that apixaban produces a concentration-dependent reduction in thrombin activity, which correlates with its ability to lower clot-related risks. Unlike traditional anticoagulants, this effect is consistent and predictable, offering a balanced approach to maintaining blood fluidity without routine monitoring.

How to use ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET

Recommended Dosage for Eliquis 2.5mg

• Take one tablet twice daily, about 12 hours apart
• Standard for adults after hip or knee replacement surgery
• Also for certain patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation
• Prescribed based on age, body weight, or kidney function
• Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions

Administration Tips for Eliquis

• Swallow the tablet whole with water
• Do not chew, break, or crush unless instructed
• Can be taken with or without food
• Take at the same times each day for consistency
• Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have trouble swallowing tablets

Duration of Eliquis Therapy

• After hip replacement: up to 38 days
• After knee replacement: up to 14 days
• For atrial fibrillation or recurrent clots: duration varies, as advised by your doctor
• Never stop taking Eliquis without consulting your healthcare provider

Crushing Eliquis Tablets: What You Need to Know

• If unable to swallow whole, crush and mix with water and take immediately
• For nasogastric tube: suspend crushed tablet in water or 5% dextrose in water and administer promptly
• Prepare the mixture just before use
• Rinse the container or spoon with water and drink the rinse to ensure full dose

What if I forgot to take ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET

• If you remember a missed dose and it is more than 6 hours until your next dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
• If it is less than 6 hours until your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time.
• Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
• Missing doses may increase your risk of blood clots.
• If you are unsure what to do or have missed several doses, contact your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

Overdose

• If you take more Eliquis than prescribed, contact your doctor or go to the nearest hospital immediately.
• Taking too much Eliquis can increase your risk of bleeding.
• Do not wait for symptoms to appear—seek medical help right away if you suspect an overdose.

Side Effects Of ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET

Common side effects of Eliquis 2.5mg Tablet:

• Bleeding affecting (eyes, stomach or bowel, rectum, blood in the urine, nose, and gums)
• Bruising and swelling
• Anaemia which may lead to tiredness or paleness
• Low blood pressure (faint or have a quickened heartbeat)
• Nausea

When to Seek Medical Attention?

• Severe allergic reaction (hypersensitivity) causing swelling of lips, mouth, tongue, and throat
• Breathing difficulties

Warning & Precautions

Pregnancy

Contraindicated

The effects of ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET on pregnancy and the unborn child are not known. Hence it is not recommended during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before taking it.

Breastfeeding

Consult your doctor

It is not known if ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET passes into human breast milk. Consult your doctor for advice before taking this medicine during breastfeeding.

Driving and Using Machines

Use with Caution

ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET does not impair the ability to drive or use machines. Consult your doctor.

Kidney

Use with Caution

ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET should be taken with caution in patients with severe kidney disease or who are on dialysis. Consult your doctor before taking it.

Liver

Contraindicated

ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET is not recommended for use in patients with liver disease such as hepatic coagulopathy which may increase the risk of bleeding. Consult your doctor before taking it.

Allergy

Contraindicated

Do not take ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET if you are allergic to Apixaban or any other ingredients of this medicine.

Heart Disease

Use with Caution

ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET should be taken with caution in patients with prosthetic heart valves. Consult your doctor before taking it.

Use In Pediatrics

Contraindicated

ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET is not recommended for use in children and adolescents (under 18 years of age). Consult your doctor before taking.

Use In Geriatrics

Use with Caution

ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET should be used with caution in elderly patients (aged above 75 years). Consult your doctor before taking it.

Other Warnings for ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET

Before taking ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET, inform your doctor if you:

• Have bleeding disorders
• Have very high blood pressure
• Have antiphospholipid syndrome (a disorder of the immune system that increases the risk of blood clots)
• Have to undergo surgery which will cause bleeding
• Have lactose intolerance

Who should not take [GBNKEYWORD

ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET is not recommended for use if you:

• Had a tube or an injection in your spinal column (for anesthesia)
• Have unstable blood pressure

Safety Advice

Risk of Bleeding

• Bleeding Risk: Eliquis is a blood thinner and increases your risk of bleeding. You may bruise more easily and bleeding may take longer to stop. Bleeding can be serious and, in rare cases, life-threatening. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice unexpected or prolonged bleeding, black or tarry stools, blood in urine or stools, nosebleeds, heavy menstrual bleeding, or if you cough up or vomit bloo
• Medication Interactions: Tell your doctor about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as some can increase your bleeding risk
• Injury Prevention: Be cautious to avoid injuries. Use gentle techniques when brushing teeth, shaving, or handling sharp objects. Avoid rough sports or activities that may cause cuts or bruises.

Spinal or Epidural Procedures

• Risk of Spinal/Epidural Hematoma: If you are scheduled for spinal or epidural anesthesia, or a spinal puncture, there is a risk of a blood clot forming around the spinal cord, which can lead to long-term or permanent paralysis. This risk is higher if you have a history of spinal surgery, repeated spinal taps, or are taking other blood-thinning medications
• Monitoring: If you have any spinal or epidural procedures, your doctor will monitor you closely for symptoms such as numbness, weakness in the legs, or loss of bladder or bowel control. Report these symptoms immediately

Surgical and Dental Procedures

• Before Procedures: Always inform your healthcare provider and dentist that you are taking Eliquis before any surgery, medical, or dental procedure. You may need to stop Eliquis temporarily, but do not stop without your doctor’s guidance
• Timing: Eliquis is usually stopped 24–48 hours before procedures to reduce bleeding risk

General Advice

• Do Not Stop Suddenly: Never stop taking Eliquis without consulting your doctor, as this can increase your risk of stroke or blood clot
• Personal Use Only: Do not share your medication with others, even if they have similar symptom
• Regular Checkups: Attend regular follow-ups with your doctor to monitor your response to the medication and check for any side effect

Diet and Lifestyle Advice

Diet Advice

General Diet:

• You do not need to follow a special or restrictive diet while taking Eliquis. However, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet supports overall cardiovascular health

Foods to Limit:

• Avoid large amounts of grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as these can increase Eliquis levels and the risk of bleeding

Foods to Limit:

• Avoid large amounts of grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as these can increase Eliquis levels and the risk of bleeding
• Limit or avoid supplements such as vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, and turmeric, which may also increase bleeding risk

Other Foods:

• Unlike with some other anticoagulants (like warfarin), there is no need to limit leafy greens, broccoli, or other vitamin K-rich foods when taking Eliquis
• High-fat foods and caffeine do not have known harmful interactions with Eliquis.

Lifestyle Advice

Medication Routine:

• Take Eliquis exactly as prescribed, usually twice daily at the same times each day, with or without food
• Set reminders or use a pill organizer to help maintain your schedule

Physical Activity:

• Regular exercise is encouraged, as it helps reduce the risk of blood clots and supports heart health

Weight Management:

• Maintain a healthy weight or work toward weight loss if needed, as obesity can increase the risk of clotting

Avoid Smoking:

• Quit smoking to further lower your risk of blood clots and cardiovascular events

Safety Precautions:

• Be cautious with activities that may cause injury or bleeding, such as contact sports or using sharp objects
• Inform your doctor if you plan to have surgery or dental work, as you may need to temporarily stop Eliquis

Key Differences: Eliquis vs. Warfarin

Drug - Drug interaction

Eliquis 2.5mg Tablet (apixaban) is an oral anticoagulant used to prevent blood clots in specific patient groups. However, it can interact with a wide range of medications, which may affect its safety and effectiveness. These interactions can increase the risk of bleeding or, in some cases, make Eliquis less effective. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are using before starting Eliquis

Below are the main types of drug-drug interactions for Eliquis 2.5mg Tablet, along with guidance on management:

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) and Antiplatelet Agents

• Interaction: NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) and antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin, clopidogrel, ticagrelor) can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Eliquis
• Management: Avoid using these medications unless specifically advised by your doctor. For pain relief, paracetamol (acetaminophen) is generally considered safe to use with Eliquis

Other Anticoagulants and Thrombolytic Agents

• Interaction: Combining Eliquis with other blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, heparin, fondaparinux) or thrombolytic agents (e.g., alteplase) significantly raises the risk of bleeding
• Management: Use of multiple anticoagulants should only be done under close medical supervision. Your doctor may adjust doses or monitor your condition more closely.

Antifungal and Antibiotic Medications

• Interaction: Certain antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole) and some antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin) can increase Eliquis levels in the blood, increasing the risk of bleeding
• Management: Inform your healthcare provider if you are prescribed these medications. Your doctor may adjust your Eliquis dose or recommend alternative treatments.

Antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs)

• Interaction: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Eliquis
• Management: Discuss all antidepressants with your healthcare provider. Your doctor may monitor you more closely for signs of bleeding.

Antiseizure Medications and St. John’s Wort

• Interaction: Some antiseizure drugs (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin) and the herbal supplement St. John’s wort can decrease Eliquis levels, making it less effective
• Management: Avoid St. John’s wort while taking Eliquis. If you need antiseizure medication, your doctor may need to adjust your Eliquis dose or choose a different anticoagulant.

Antiviral Medications (e.g., Ritonavir)

• Interaction: Ritonavir (used for HIV and COVID) can increase Eliquis levels and bleeding risk
• Management: Inform your doctor if you are prescribed ritonavir or similar medications. Dose adjustments or alternative treatments may be necessary.

Rifampin (for Tuberculosis)

• Interaction: Rifampin can decrease Eliquis levels, reducing its effectiveness
• Management: If you are prescribed rifampin, your doctor may need to adjust your Eliquis dose or consider alternative anticoagulant therapy.

Drug - Food interaction

Eliquis 2.5mg Tablet (apixaban) does not require a special diet like some older blood thinners, but certain foods and drinks can interact with it and potentially affect your risk of bleeding or the medication’s effectiveness. It is important to be aware of these interactions and discuss your diet and supplement use with your healthcare provider before starting Eliquis.

Below are the main drug-food interactions for Eliquis 2.5mg Tablet, along with management advice for each:

Grapefruit, Grapefruit Juice, Pomelos, Limes, and Marmalades

• Interaction: These citrus fruits and products can inhibit the breakdown of Eliquis in your body, leading to higher levels of the medication and an increased risk of bleeding.
• Management: Avoid consuming grapefruit, grapefruit juice, pomelos, limes, and marmalades while taking Eliquis. If you regularly consume these foods, talk to your doctor about safe alternatives

Herbal Teas and Supplements (e.g., Chamomile Tea, Green Tea, Turmeric, Ginger, Ginkgo Biloba, Vitamin E, Fish Oil)

• Interaction: Certain herbal teas and supplements may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Eliquis. In particular, chamomile tea, green tea, turmeric, ginger, ginkgo biloba, vitamin E, and fish oil are noted for their potential to affect bleeding risk.
• Management: Limit or avoid these herbal teas and supplements while taking Eliquis, especially when consumed in large amounts or in supplement form. Always review your supplement use with your healthcare provider before starting Eliquis

Other Considerations

• Alcohol: While there is no direct interaction between alcohol and Eliquis, both can increase the risk of bleeding. Heavy alcohol use should be avoided.
• Leafy Greens and Broccoli: Unlike with warfarin, leafy greens and broccoli do not require restriction with Eliquis and can be consumed as part of a healthy diet
• Caffeine and High-Fat Foods: There are no known harmful interactions with caffeine or high-fat foods, but limiting these may benefit overall heart health, not specifically due to Eliquis

Synopsis

More Information

FAQs About ELIQUIS 2.5MG TABLET

References

1. Joseph T. DiPiro, Robert L. Talbert, Cardiovascular Diseases, Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach, Eighth Edition. 2011. Page-324.

2. Joseph P. Broderick, Jordan B. Bonomo, Brett M. Kissela, Jane C. Khoury, Charles J. Moomaw, Kathleen Alwell, Daniel Woo, Matthew L. Flaherty, Pooja Khatri, Opeolu Adeoye, Simona Ferioli, Dawn O. Kleindorfer. Withdrawal of Antithrombotic Agents and Its Impact on Ischemic Stroke Occurrence. NIH. National Library of Medicine. National Center for Biotechnology Information. PubMed Central. June 2011. [Accessed on 21st June 2025]  

3. CATALENT ANAGNI S.R.L. Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). [Revised in September 2021]. [Accessed on 21st June 2025]

4. Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Pfizer Inc. Bristol Myers Squib. [Revised in September 2021]. [Accessed on 21st June 2025]

Useful Diagnostic Tests

• CBC
• Echocardiography
• Duplex Ultrasound
• Chest Xray 

Author Details

Written By Dr. Karthikeyan Rajagopal - M.Pharm (Pharmacology)

Reviewed For Accuracy By Dr. Thamada Manikanta Praveen - MBBS, MD (General Medicine)

Last updated on 23 Jun 2025 | 12:11 PM(IST)