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Eliquis: A Comprehensive Guide to the Popular Blood Thinner Medication

Eliquis, also known as apixaban, is a prescription medication used to prevent stroke and systemic embolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AFib). It is also used to treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). In this article, we will delve into the world of Eliquis, exploring its mechanism of action, benefits, side effects, and more.

What is Eliquis?

Eliquis is a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) that works by inhibiting factor Xa, a key protein involved in the blood clotting process. This inhibition prevents the formation of blood clots, reducing the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with AFib.

History of Eliquis

Eliquis was first approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in December 2012 for the prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with non-valvular AFib. Since then, it has become one of the most widely prescribed DOACs worldwide.

Mechanism of Action

Eliquis works by binding to factor Xa, preventing it from binding to activated factor VIIa. This inhibition prevents the formation of thrombin, a key enzyme involved in blood clotting. By inhibiting factor Xa, Eliquis reduces the risk of blood clots forming in the body.

Benefits of Eliquis

Eliquis has several benefits that make it a popular choice among patients and healthcare providers. Some of the key benefits include:

* Effective stroke prevention: Eliquis has been shown to reduce the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with AFib.
* Convenient dosing: Eliquis is taken orally, once or twice daily, depending on the indication.
* Low risk of bleeding: Eliquis has a lower risk of bleeding compared to warfarin, a traditional anticoagulant.
* Fewer food and drug interactions: Eliquis has fewer food and drug interactions compared to warfarin.

Side Effects of Eliquis

Like all medications, Eliquis can cause side effects. Some of the common side effects of Eliquis include:

* Nausea and vomiting
* Dizziness and lightheadedness
* Headache
* Fatigue
* Abdominal pain

Precautions and Contraindications

Eliquis is contraindicated in patients with active pathological bleeding, severe hepatic impairment, or hypersensitivity to apixaban. Patients with a history of bleeding or those taking other anticoagulants should use Eliquis with caution.

Dosage and Administration

Eliquis is available in 2.5mg and 5mg tablets. The recommended dosage is 5mg twice daily for the prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with AFib. For the treatment of DVT and PE, the recommended dosage is 10mg twice daily for 7-14 days.

Patent Information

Eliquis is protected by several patents, including US Patent 7,982,444, which expires in 2025. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, Eliquis has several patent applications pending, including US Patent Application 16/345,444, which was filed in 2019.

Conclusion

Eliquis is a widely prescribed DOAC used to prevent stroke and systemic embolism in patients with AFib. Its mechanism of action, benefits, and side effects make it a popular choice among patients and healthcare providers. While it has several advantages, it is essential to use Eliquis with caution and follow the recommended dosage and administration guidelines.

Key Takeaways

* Eliquis is a direct oral anticoagulant used to prevent stroke and systemic embolism in patients with AFib.
* It works by inhibiting factor Xa, a key protein involved in the blood clotting process.
* Eliquis has several benefits, including effective stroke prevention, convenient dosing, and a low risk of bleeding.
* Common side effects of Eliquis include nausea and vomiting, dizziness and lightheadedness, headache, fatigue, and abdominal pain.
* Eliquis is contraindicated in patients with active pathological bleeding, severe hepatic impairment, or hypersensitivity to apixaban.

FAQs

1. What is Eliquis used for?
Eliquis is used to prevent stroke and systemic embolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AFib).
2. How does Eliquis work?
Eliquis works by inhibiting factor Xa, a key protein involved in the blood clotting process.
3. What are the benefits of Eliquis?
Eliquis has several benefits, including effective stroke prevention, convenient dosing, and a low risk of bleeding.
4. What are the common side effects of Eliquis?
Common side effects of Eliquis include nausea and vomiting, dizziness and lightheadedness, headache, fatigue, and abdominal pain.
5. Is Eliquis safe for patients with a history of bleeding?
Eliquis is contraindicated in patients with active pathological bleeding. Patients with a history of bleeding should use Eliquis with caution.

Cited Sources

1. US Food and Drug Administration. (2012). FDA approves Eliquis to reduce stroke risk in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation.
2. Bristol-Myers Squibb. (n.d.). Eliquis Prescribing Information.
3. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Eliquis (apixaban) Patent Information.
4. American Heart Association. (2019). 2019 AHA/ACC/HRS Focused Update of the 2014 AHA/ACC/HRS Guideline for the Management of Patients With Atrial Fibrillation.
5. European Medicines Agency. (2011). Eliquis: Summary of Product Characteristics.