What You Need to Know About Eliquis Side Effects

Eliquis (Apixaban) is one of the most widely prescribed blood thinners in the United States. It's used to prevent strokes in people with atrial fibrillation, treat blood clots, and reduce the risk of clots after hip or knee replacement surgery. Like all medications, Eliquis comes with potential side effects — some minor, some serious.

This guide breaks down the most common and serious side effects of Eliquis based on FDA labeling, so you know what to watch for and when to call your doctor.

What Is Eliquis?

Eliquis is a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) that works by blocking Factor Xa, a key protein in the blood clotting process. It's made by Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer and is taken as a tablet twice daily. To learn more about how this medication works, see our guide on how Eliquis works.

Common Side Effects of Eliquis

The most frequently reported side effects of Eliquis are related to its blood-thinning action. These are usually mild and may improve as your body adjusts:

• Bruising easily — You may notice bruises appear more often or from minor bumps.
• Minor bleeding — Nosebleeds, bleeding gums when brushing teeth, or small cuts that take longer to stop bleeding.
• Nausea — Some people feel mildly nauseous, especially when first starting the medication.
• Anemia — Low red blood cell counts can develop over time, causing tiredness or weakness.
• Fatigue — Feeling more tired than usual is reported by some patients.

These side effects affect a relatively small percentage of patients in clinical trials. Most people taking Eliquis tolerate it well.

Serious Side Effects: When to Seek Help Immediately

Because Eliquis prevents blood from clotting normally, the most serious risk is uncontrolled bleeding. Call your doctor or go to the emergency room right away if you experience:

• Heavy or uncontrolled bleeding — Bleeding that won't stop, even with pressure.
• Blood in your urine — Pink, red, or dark brown urine.
• Blood in your stool — Black, tarry stools or bright red blood.
• Coughing up blood — Or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
• Severe headache, dizziness, or weakness — Could signal bleeding in the brain.
• Severe allergic reaction — Rash, hives, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing.

Boxed Warnings

Eliquis carries two FDA boxed warnings — the most serious type of safety alert:

1. Premature discontinuation risk: Stopping Eliquis early increases the risk of blood clots and stroke. Never stop taking Eliquis without talking to your doctor first.
2. Spinal/epidural hematoma risk: Patients who take Eliquis and receive spinal anesthesia or spinal punctures are at risk of developing blood clots near the spine, which can cause long-term or permanent paralysis.

Side Effects in Specific Populations

Some people may be at higher risk for side effects:

Older Adults (Age 80+)

Elderly patients may have a higher risk of bleeding. Doctors often prescribe the lower 2.5 mg dose for patients aged 80 or older who also have low body weight or reduced kidney function.

People with Kidney Problems

While Eliquis doesn't require dose adjustment for mild-to-moderate kidney impairment, patients with severe kidney disease need careful monitoring. Your doctor may check your kidney function with blood tests before and during treatment.

People Taking Other Blood Thinners or NSAIDs

Taking Eliquis with other anticoagulants (like Warfarin or Heparin), antiplatelet drugs (like Aspirin or Clopidogrel), or NSAIDs (like Ibuprofen or Naproxen) significantly increases bleeding risk. Always tell your doctor about all medications you're taking. For a full list, see our guide on Eliquis drug interactions.

Patients with Liver Disease

People with severe liver problems should use Eliquis with caution. Your doctor will evaluate whether it's safe for you.

How to Manage Common Side Effects

If you're experiencing mild side effects, here are some practical tips:

• For easy bruising: Avoid activities with high injury risk. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and an electric razor instead of a blade.
• For minor bleeding: Apply firm pressure to cuts for at least 10 minutes. Use gauze for nosebleeds and lean forward.
• For nausea: Try taking Eliquis with food. If nausea persists, talk to your doctor.
• For fatigue: Make sure you're staying hydrated and eating well. If fatigue is severe or getting worse, ask your doctor to check your blood counts.
• Wear a medical alert bracelet: Let emergency responders know you're on a blood thinner in case of an accident.

Never stop taking Eliquis on your own because of side effects. Stopping suddenly can put you at risk for stroke or blood clots. Always talk to your doctor first about any concerns.

What About Reversal?

Unlike Pradaxa (Dabigatran), which has a specific reversal agent called Praxbind, Eliquis does not have a dedicated reversal drug approved by the FDA. In emergency bleeding situations, doctors may use Andexxa (Andexanet Alfa), a Factor Xa reversal agent, or other supportive treatments. This is one reason it's important to keep your doctor informed and seek emergency care for serious bleeding.

Final Thoughts

Most people take Eliquis without experiencing serious problems. The most common side effects — bruising, minor bleeding, and nausea — are manageable and often improve over time. But because Eliquis is a blood thinner, it's critical to know the warning signs of serious bleeding and to contact your doctor right away if something doesn't feel right.

If you're looking for more information about Eliquis, check out our guides on what Eliquis is and how it's used or how to save money on your prescription. And if you need help finding Eliquis in stock, Medfinder can help you locate a pharmacy near you.