What it is used for

Preventing strokes and blood clots in people with atrial fibrillation
Treating and preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE)
Preventing blood clots after a hip or knee replacement

Read our guides:

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Apixaban is not commonly used off-label.

How it works

Apixaban blocks a clotting protein in the blood called factor Xa. This makes your blood take longer to clot, which lowers the chance of a clot forming.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Apixaban can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

bruising more easily
nosebleeds
bleeding gums
heavier periods
feeling sick

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

red, pink or brown pee, or red or black poo
coughing up or vomiting blood
bleeding that will not stop
a severe headache, confusion or sudden weakness, which can be signs of bleeding in the brain. Call 999

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

Carry an anticoagulant alert card.
Tell any doctor, dentist or pharmacist that you take it.
Do not take anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen or aspirin unless your doctor says so.
Get urgent help after a fall or head injury, even if you feel fine.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.