Apixaban (Eliquis 5 mg): Uses, Safety and Interactions

What this medicine is used for

Eliquis contains apixaban, which reduces clot formation by blocking factor Xa. This summary concerns the 5 mg film-coated oral tablet and focuses on adult care described in the European Union product information. Uses include preventing stroke and systemic embolism in selected people with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, treating deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, and preventing recurrence.

The tablet strength does not determine a complete treatment plan. The reason for treatment, kidney function, age, body weight and other medicines can change which regimen is appropriate. Other Eliquis strengths and paediatric formulations have separate instructions. A 5 mg tablet should not be treated as a universal dose for every indication.

Bleeding and urgent warning signs

Easier bruising, nosebleeds, gum bleeding or heavier periods can occur. Anaemia and nausea are also reported. Seek urgent medical assessment for uncontrolled bleeding, blood in vomit, black stools, a major head injury, or a sudden severe headache with weakness, speech problems or confusion. These can indicate internal bleeding even when an external wound is not visible.

Carry an anticoagulant alert card and tell the dentist, surgeon or other treating professional about apixaban before procedures. Stopping anticoagulation without a coordinated plan can leave the underlying clotting risk untreated; the team responsible for treatment should make that decision.

Interactions and individual precautions

Aspirin, other antiplatelet medicines, NSAID painkillers and some antidepressants can increase bleeding risk. EU labelling contraindicates concurrent anticoagulants except in specified supervised situations, such as switching therapy or certain heparin procedures. Prescribed antiplatelet combinations need a clear clinical reason and supervision. A pharmacist should also check antifungals, ritonavir-containing treatments, seizure medicines and St John’s wort: some alter apixaban exposure rather than merely adding bleeding effects.

Apixaban tablets can be taken with or without food. Active clinically significant bleeding and liver disease with coagulopathy and relevant bleeding risk are contraindications. Other kidney or liver problems require specific assessment. EU guidance does not recommend apixaban during pregnancy; breastfeeding requires a treatment or feeding decision with the clinical team. This overview does not supply a personal dose, a switching schedule or instructions for interrupting treatment.

Sources

• Eliquis: EU product information, including 5 mg film-coated tablets — EMA product information updated 10 April 2026; adult 5 mg SmPC sections 4.1–4.8
• NHS: Apixaban patient information — Patient guidance reviewed 21 January 2026; checked 30 October 2026

Source check: 30 October 2026. This date records a check of published sources, not an independent clinical review. The current leaflet for your own product and advice from a qualified healthcare professional take priority for personal treatment.