What is the most common adverse drug reaction reported with Apixaban?

Apixaban, an anticoagulant and a direct factor Xa inhibitor, has bleeding as the most common adverse drug reaction reported. This is primarily due to its mechanism of action, which interferes with the normal blood coagulation process. By inhibiting factor Xa, Apixaban effectively reduces the ability of the blood to clot, which can lead to various forms of bleeding, including gastrointestinal bleeding, intracranial hemorrhage, and other major bleeding events.

The risk of bleeding is a significant concern with anticoagulants because while they provide therapeutic benefits by preventing thromboembolic events, they also increase the risk of adverse outcomes associated with excessive bleeding. This makes it essential for healthcare providers to monitor patients on Apixaban closely for signs of bleeding and adjust dosages or discontinue the medication if necessary.

Understanding that bleeding is a common risk associated with anticoagulants like Apixaban helps to reinforce the importance of patient education regarding potential symptoms and the need for regular follow-up appointments, where appropriate.