Eliquis is a prescription medication used to prevent blood clots and stroke in people with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, a type of heart rhythm disorder, and to treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism. It works by blocking certain clotting proteins in the blood to prevent the formation of blood clots.
Due to the potential for life-threatening blood clots during certain major surgical procedures, this drug is often prescribed in advance. Although the danger posed by these clots is reduced if they do not move, the fact that this is so uncommon is a major issue. Suppose they become dislodged and move through the arteries. In that case, they could potentially block the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the brain and heart, increasing the risk of serious injury. The risk of cardiovascular complications, such as a heart attack or a stroke, is of particular concern.
Patients undergoing these procedures can look forward with renewed hope to a future free of pain and limited mobility. It would be terrible if they were immediately thrown into another after getting out of one tricky spot. The good news is that you have already scheduled this type of surgery, and the doctors know the risks.
How Does It Work?
Factor Xa, a protein in the blood, plays a role in clot formation. Eliquis prevents strokes and other serious conditions caused by blood clots by blocking Factor Xa. When taken orally, the medication is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and starts working. The precise mechanism by which Eliquis prevents blood clots and strokes is not known, but it is believed to be linked to its ability to inhibit Factor Xa.
Eliquis’ main function is to stop blood from clotting. Moreover, it protects against atrial fibrillation, a condition in which the heart beats irregularly because of a temporary blockage in the heart’s blood supply. The prevention of pulmonary embolisms, which occur when a clot separates and travels to the pulmonary circulation, is a secondary objective. Those at high risk for DVT should take Eliquis on a maintenance dosing schedule.
When Eliquis prevents blood from clotting (by eliminating this component necessary for coagulation reaction to take place), it’s not like blood clots can’t form. They still can but are weaker and much more likely to break away as they go through the arterial system. If your doctor thinks you’re at a high risk of complications during surgery, they may give you the higher 5 mg dose. The more potent 5 mg tablet may also be necessary for the treatment of venous thromboembolism, but this is an extremely unusual occurrence.
Does It Have Side Effects?
Since Eliquis prevents blood clots from forming, it raises the risk of bleeding. Bleeding can be of varying degrees of severity, from the common nosebleed to internal bleeding or even bleeding into the brain.
Anemia can occur if your red blood cell count drops due to taking Eliquis. People taking Eliquis may feel lightheaded, especially when getting out of a seated or lying position. In addition, some users have complained of experiencing headaches.
Eliquis may cause additional side effects not listed here. Discuss this treatment’s potential benefits and drawbacks with your doctor and let them know about any adverse reactions you may have.
Takeaways
Eliquis should not be used in place of other blood clot prevention methods, such as changing one’s lifestyle to lower risk factors or taking additional medications as prescribed by a doctor. Eliquis, like any other medication, comes with potential side effects; talk to your doctor about them.
And finally, if you are scheduled for hip or knee replacement surgery, and your doctor prescribes an anticoagulant medication like Eliquis, be sure to fill your prescription as soon as possible. A single blood clot has the potential to cause severe consequences.
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