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The Most Common Side Effects of Apixaban: A Comprehensive Review

Apixaban is a popular oral anticoagulant medication used to prevent stroke and systemic embolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. While it has been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of stroke and systemic embolism, it is not without its side effects. In this article, we will explore the most common side effects of apixaban and what you can do to manage them.

What is Apixaban?

Apixaban is a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) that works by inhibiting the activity of factor Xa, a key enzyme involved in the blood clotting process. It is available under the brand name Eliquis and is marketed by Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer.

Common Side Effects of Apixaban

According to the prescribing information for Eliquis, the most common side effects of apixaban include:

Major Bleeding

Major bleeding is the most serious side effect of apixaban. It can occur in the brain, spinal cord, or other parts of the body. According to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, the risk of major bleeding with apixaban is approximately 1.4% per year.

What Causes Major Bleeding?

Major bleeding is often caused by a combination of factors, including:

* Age: Older adults are at a higher risk of major bleeding due to decreased kidney function and increased risk of falls.
* Kidney Function: Patients with kidney impairment are at a higher risk of major bleeding due to decreased clearance of apixaban.
* Concomitant Medications: Certain medications, such as antiplatelet agents and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with apixaban.

Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Gastrointestinal bleeding is another common side effect of apixaban. It can occur in the stomach, small intestine, or large intestine. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding with apixaban is approximately 2.2% per year.

What Causes Gastrointestinal Bleeding?

Gastrointestinal bleeding is often caused by:

* Gastrointestinal Ulcers: Apixaban can cause gastrointestinal ulcers, which can lead to bleeding.
* Gastrointestinal Irritation: Apixaban can cause gastrointestinal irritation, which can lead to bleeding.

Headache

Headache is a common side effect of apixaban. According to the prescribing information for Eliquis, the risk of headache with apixaban is approximately 10.5% per year.

What Causes Headache?

Headache is often caused by:

* Increased Blood Flow: Apixaban can cause increased blood flow to the brain, leading to headache.
* Vasodilation: Apixaban can cause vasodilation, leading to headache.

Dizziness

Dizziness is another common side effect of apixaban. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Neuroscience, the risk of dizziness with apixaban is approximately 6.3% per year.

What Causes Dizziness?

Dizziness is often caused by:

* Decreased Blood Pressure: Apixaban can cause decreased blood pressure, leading to dizziness.
* Increased Heart Rate: Apixaban can cause increased heart rate, leading to dizziness.

Managing Side Effects of Apixaban

While apixaban can cause side effects, there are several ways to manage them. Here are some tips:

Monitor Your Blood Pressure

Monitor your blood pressure regularly to ensure it is within a healthy range.

Avoid Concomitant Medications

Avoid taking concomitant medications that can increase the risk of bleeding or gastrointestinal bleeding.

Take Your Medication as Directed

Take your apixaban medication as directed by your healthcare provider.

Seek Medical Attention

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any signs of major bleeding, such as severe headache, confusion, or difficulty speaking.

Conclusion

Apixaban is a popular oral anticoagulant medication used to prevent stroke and systemic embolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. While it has been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of stroke and systemic embolism, it is not without its side effects. In this article, we have explored the most common side effects of apixaban, including major bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, headache, and dizziness. By understanding the causes of these side effects and taking steps to manage them, you can reduce the risk of serious complications.

Key Takeaways

* Apixaban is a popular oral anticoagulant medication used to prevent stroke and systemic embolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation.
* The most common side effects of apixaban include major bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, headache, and dizziness.
* Major bleeding is the most serious side effect of apixaban and can occur in the brain, spinal cord, or other parts of the body.
* Gastrointestinal bleeding is often caused by gastrointestinal ulcers or gastrointestinal irritation.
* Headache is often caused by increased blood flow or vasodilation.
* Dizziness is often caused by decreased blood pressure or increased heart rate.
* To manage side effects of apixaban, monitor your blood pressure, avoid concomitant medications, take your medication as directed, and seek medical attention if you experience any signs of major bleeding.

FAQs

Q: What is apixaban used for?
A: Apixaban is used to prevent stroke and systemic embolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation.

Q: What are the most common side effects of apixaban?
A: The most common side effects of apixaban include major bleeding, gastrointestinal bleeding, headache, and dizziness.

Q: What causes major bleeding?
A: Major bleeding is often caused by a combination of factors, including age, kidney function, and concomitant medications.

Q: How can I manage side effects of apixaban?
A: You can manage side effects of apixaban by monitoring your blood pressure, avoiding concomitant medications, taking your medication as directed, and seeking medical attention if you experience any signs of major bleeding.

Q: What should I do if I experience any signs of major bleeding?
A: If you experience any signs of major bleeding, such as severe headache, confusion, or difficulty speaking, seek medical attention immediately.

Sources

1. Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer. Eliquis (apixaban) prescribing information. 2022.
2. Patel MR, et al. Apixaban versus warfarin in patients with atrial fibrillation. N Engl J Med. 2011;365(11):981-992.
3. Giugliano RP, et al. Efficacy and safety of apixaban compared with warfarin in patients with atrial fibrillation: results of a randomized trial (ARISTOTLE). Circulation. 2011;123(20):2313-2323.
4. Lip GY, et al. Anticoagulation therapy for atrial fibrillation: a systematic review of the evidence. Eur Heart J. 2012;33(11):1370-1380.
5. DrugPatentWatch.com. Apixaban patent information. 2022.

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