Eliquis (apixaban) and Xarelto are different kinds of anticoagulants used for treating clotting problems. When comparing Eliquis vs Xarelto, what is the difference between these two medications? Learning more about their differences is important when deciding which one to take as a blood thinner.
Eliquis
Eliquis is a blood thinner with the generic name apixaban.
Uses
Eliquis is approved for use in treating or preventing pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis. It is also used to reduce the risk of systemic embolism and stroke in individuals with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.
Contraindications
Eliquis has a few contraindications that individuals should be aware of. This medication is not considered suitable for those who have hypersensitivity to apixaban. It should also not be used in patients who have active pathological bleeding or those who are having spinal punctures done or getting epidural or spinal anesthesia, since it can increase the risk of spinal hematoma. This medication has warnings for other conditions as well, such as those who have prosthetic heart valves.
Xarelto
Xarelto is an anticoagulant with the generic name rivaroxaban.
Uses
Xarelto is approved for use in treating and preventing deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. It is also used to reduce the risk of systemic embolism and stroke in individuals with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. Other uses include a reduced risk of recurrent DVT and PE and a reduced risk of major cardiovascular events in individuals with peripheral artery disease or chronic coronary artery disease.
Contraindications
Xarelto is contraindicated in individuals who have active pathological bleeding and those who have a severe hypersensitivity to this medication. Xarelto also has warnings for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as hepatic impairment, prosthetic heart valves, and triple positive antiphospholipid syndrome.
Eliquis vs Xarelto â What is the Difference?
Eliquis and Xarelto have many similar uses and a similar mechanism of action, although Xarelto is used for reducing the risk of cardiovascular events while Eliquis is not. A 2019 scientific review found that Eliquis may provide a safer way of treating acute venous thromboembolism compared to Xarelto. Patients who took Xarelto were found to have more bleeding overall. Individuals should discuss the risks associated with both types of blood thinners with their doctor before taking either one.
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