What is the brand name for Apixaban?
The brand name for Apixaban is Eliquis.
PTCE Top 200 · #28
Apixaban
Eliquis
Apixaban is the generic name for the brand-name drug Eliquis. It is a doac (factor xa inhibitor) used to treat afib, DVT/PE prevention. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Apixaban ranks #28 and is one of the most frequently tested cardiovascular medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Apixaban |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Eliquis |
| Drug class | DOAC (factor Xa inhibitor) |
| Class group | Cardiovascular |
| Common use | afib, DVT/PE prevention |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Apixaban used for?
Oral factor Xa inhibitor anticoagulant used to prevent or treat blood clots (e.g., stroke prevention in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation; treatment/prevention of DVT/PE depending on regimen).
What drug class is Apixaban?
Apixaban is a DOAC (factor Xa inhibitor) in the Cardiovascular group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Apixaban
- arrow_rightBleeding
- arrow_rightBruising
- arrow_rightAnemia
- arrow_rightNausea
- arrow_rightMinor bleeding (e.g., nosebleeds)
Major interactions
- arrow_rightStrong dual CYP3A4 and P‑gp inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir) ↑ bleeding risk
- arrow_rightStrong CYP3A4/P‑gp inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine) ↓ effect/clot risk
- arrow_rightOther anticoagulants/antiplatelets/NSAIDs ↑ bleeding risk
Is Apixaban a controlled substance?
No. Apixaban is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
warning Boxed warning
BOXED WARNING: Premature discontinuation increases risk of thrombotic events; spinal/epidural hematoma risk with neuraxial anesthesia/spinal puncture.
How to remember Apixaban (PTCE mnemonic)
ELI-Quis ELI-minates clots — api-XA-ban blocks factor Xa. Bleeding risk but NO routine INR; don't stop abruptly (stroke).
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
The suffix -xaban = a factor Xa inhibitor (a DOAC). Unlike warfarin, apixaban (Eliquis) needs no routine INR monitoring — a classic compare-and-contrast.
Apixaban FAQ
What is Apixaban used for?
Apixaban is used to treat afib, DVT/PE prevention. Oral factor Xa inhibitor anticoagulant used to prevent or treat blood clots (e.g., stroke prevention in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation; treatment/prevention of DVT/PE depending on regimen).
What drug class is Apixaban?
Apixaban is a DOAC (factor Xa inhibitor) (Cardiovascular group).
Is Apixaban a controlled substance?
No. Apixaban is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Cardiovascular group
Drill Apixaban the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).