Apixaban, commonly known as Eliquis, is a medication prescribed to manage blood clotting. It functions as an anticoagulant, often called a “blood thinner,” though it does not actually thin the blood itself. Instead, it prevents the formation of dangerous blood clots that can lead to serious health conditions like stroke, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and pulmonary embolism (PE).
Understanding Apixaban’s Purpose
Apixaban targets Factor Xa, an enzyme in the body’s clotting process. As a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC), it selectively inhibits Factor Xa, reducing thrombin production. This action prevents new blood clots from forming and stops existing ones from growing.
Healthcare providers prescribe Apixaban for various conditions requiring blood clot prevention. It lowers the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in individuals with atrial fibrillation, a type of irregular heartbeat. Apixaban is also prescribed after orthopedic surgeries, like hip or knee replacement, to prevent DVT and PE. Additionally, it treats existing DVT and PE and reduces their recurrence.
Immediate Steps After a Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of Apixaban, take it as soon as you remember on the same day. Never take two doses at once to compensate, as this increases the risk of bleeding.
If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the forgotten dose and continue your regular schedule. For instance, if your next dose is less than six hours away, skip the missed one. Always follow your doctor’s or pharmacist’s specific instructions, as advice varies.
Potential Health Implications of Missing Doses
Missing an Apixaban dose reduces the medication’s effectiveness in preventing blood clot formation. Apixaban has an approximate half-life of 12 hours, meaning about half the drug is eliminated within that time. Its protective effects against clotting begin to diminish within about 24 hours if a dose is missed.
Inconsistent dosing increases the risk of conditions Apixaban is prescribed to prevent. For those with atrial fibrillation, missing doses elevates stroke risk. Similarly, inconsistent intake for DVT and PE prevention or treatment increases the risk of these dangerous clots. The risk of complications rises with multiple or prolonged missed doses.
Strategies for Consistent Medication Adherence
Establishing a routine helps ensure consistent medication intake. Taking Apixaban at the same time daily, such as with meals or at bedtime, integrates it into your habits. A pill organizer provides a visual reminder and helps track doses, preventing accidental skips or double doses.
Setting daily alarms on a phone, watch, or computer serves as an effective reminder. Keeping medication in a visible, accessible location further reinforces adherence. If adherence difficulties arise, communicate these challenges with your healthcare team for additional strategies or support.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
Consult a healthcare professional if you are uncertain about steps to take after missing an Apixaban dose. This also applies if you have missed multiple doses, as it could significantly impact your protection against blood clots. Your doctor or pharmacist can provide tailored guidance based on your medical history.
Additionally, seek professional advice if you experience new or concerning symptoms indicating a blood clot or bleeding. Symptoms such as unexplained swelling, pain, redness in a limb, sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or neurological changes like weakness or difficulty speaking warrant immediate medical attention. Healthcare providers are the best resource for personalized advice regarding your medication regimen and any potential complications.