Eliquis (apixaban) is a medication used to prevent blood clots in the veins. It is prescribed for various medical conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and stroke prevention in people with atrial fibrillation (AFib). However, before taking Eliquis, it is essential to take some precautions to ensure your safety and avoid any complications. Eliquis (Apixaban) is a medication used to prevent blood clots in people who have undergone knee or hip replacement surgeries. It is also used to treat and prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolisms (PE). Although Eliquis is an incredibly useful medication, it carries certain risks and requires precautions to be taken before its use. In this blog post, we will outline the precautions you need to take before taking Eliquis (Apixaban).
Consult with your doctor:
The first and most crucial precaution before taking Eliquis is to consult with your doctor. Your doctor will evaluate your medical history, including allergies, liver or kidney problems, blood pressure, and other medical conditions. They will also consider any other medications you are taking and assess if they will interact with Eliquis. Based on your medical history, your doctor will determine whether Eliquis is a safe and effective medication for you.
Follow your doctor’s prescription:
It is essential to follow your doctor’s prescription when taking Eliquis. Take the medication at the same time every day and avoid missing any doses. If you forget to take your medication, take it as soon as you remember, or skip the missed dose if it is closer to the time of the next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.
Inform your doctor if you experience any side effects:
Like any other medication, Eliquis may have side effects. These include bleeding, nausea, diarrhea, and dizziness. If you experience any side effects, inform your doctor immediately. They will advise you whether to stop the medication, reduce the dosage, or switch to another medication.
Avoid activities that may cause bleeding:
Since Eliquis prevents blood clots, it is crucial to avoid activities that may cause bleeding. These include shaving with a razor, brushing your teeth too hard, or playing contact sports. If you accidentally cut yourself while taking Eliquis, apply pressure to the wound for a few minutes. If the bleeding does not stop, seek medical attention immediately.
Inform healthcare providers before any medical procedures:
If you are scheduled for any medical procedures such as surgery or dental work, inform your healthcare provider that you are taking Eliquis. They will advise you whether to continue taking the medication or stop it temporarily before the procedure. This is important to avoid complications such as excessive bleeding during the procedure.
Inform Your Doctor –
Before starting an Eliquis treatment, it is essential to inform your doctor about your medical history and any recent surgeries. Certain health conditions or procedures may cause drug interactions, which can lead to severe side effects. Therefore, your doctor needs to determine whether Eliquis is the right medication for you.
Inform Your Dentist –
Another important precaution to take before taking Eliquis is to inform your dentist about the medication. Dental procedures, like extractions, can cause bleeding, and your dentist may need to adjust the medication dosage or recommend stopping it temporarily.
Take Precautions with Other Medications –
Certain medications, such as anticoagulants, antiplatelets, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may interact with Eliquis and increase your risk of bleeding. You should avoid taking these medications unless your doctor has approved them.
Report Symptoms of Bleeding –
Eliquis can increase the risk of bleeding, and it is essential to report any signs or symptoms of bleeding to your doctor. These include unusual bleeding or bruising, blood in vomit or stool, nosebleeds, and prolonged bleeding from cuts. Eliquis should be used with caution in people with weakened immune systems, or those taking medications that increase the risk of bleeding.
It is also important to tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Eliquis can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. You should not take Eliquis without speaking to your doctor first.
Avoid Heavy Drinking –
Finally, it is crucial to avoid heavy drinking while taking Eliquis. Alcohol can increase the risk of bleeding, and it can also interact with the medication, rendering it less effective. It is important to talk with your doctor about the amount of alcohol that is safe to consume while taking Eliquis. Additionally, it may be necessary to adjust your dosage if you plan on drinking heavily or for an extended period of time. Taking Eliquis as prescribed and following the advice of your doctor will help ensure that you are getting the most out of your treatment and that it is as safe and effective as possible.
Finally, it is important to review the full range of potential side effects with your doctor before taking Eliquis. While most people do not experience any side effects, some may develop an allergic reaction or have other serious health issues due to the medication. It is also important to contact your doctor if any of the side effects become severe or persistent. With the right information and care, Eliquis can be a safe and effective medication for those who need it.
Conclusion:
Taking Eliquis requires necessary precautions to ensure your safety and avoid complications. Consult with your doctor, follow their prescription, report any side effects, and avoid activities that may cause bleeding. Also, inform healthcare providers before any medical procedures to ensure your safety. By taking these precautions, you can effectively manage your medical condition and live a healthy life.In conclusion, taking Eliquis requires certain precautions to be taken to ensure the safe and effective use of the medication. Before starting an Eliquis treatment, inform your doctor and dentist, take precautions with other medications and report any symptoms of bleeding. Furthermore, it is crucial to avoid heavy drinking while taking Eliquis. By following these precautions, you can reduce the risks associated with Eliquis and benefit from its therapeutic effects. Always remember, do not stop or adjust the medication dosage unless instructed by your doctor.