Patient was educated on contraindications for using Apixaban as follows:
- Apixaban is mainly metabolized by the liver. Individuals with history of compromised liver function cannot metabolize Apixaban and this can lead to increased blood levels of Apixaban for longer duration, leading to toxicity and episodes of bleeding. Apixaban should be avoided or used with extreme caution in such individuals.
- Apixaban is mainly excreted in the bile and urine. Individuals with history of biliary obstruction, stasis of bile, and compromised renal functions tend to retain the drug in the circulation longer, thus resulting in toxicity and episodes of bleeding. Apixaban should be avoided or used with extreme caution in such individuals.
- Apixaban should be avoided in individuals taking NSAIDs and other blood thinners. Taking Apixaban along with NSAIDs or other blood thinners concurrently can significantly increase the risk for bleeding episodes.
- Apixaban should be avoided in individuals with any active bleeding from any wound or surgical site. Using Apixaban in such individuals can result in uncontrolled hemorrhage and blood loss.