The Basics
What is Apixaban?
Anticoagulant that helps make it less likely to develop a dangerous blood clot.
Brand names for Apixaban
Eliquis
How Apixaban is classified
Anticoagulants, Antithrombins
Apixaban During Pregnancy
Apixaban pregnancy category
Category BNote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Apixaban while pregnant
N/A
Taking Apixaban While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Apixaban?
Because no information is available on the use of apixaban during breastfeeding and the drug is orally absorbable, an alternate drug is preferred while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.[1][2][3]
Maternal / infant drug levels
Because no information is available on the use of apixaban during breastfeeding and the drug is orally absorbable, an alternate drug is preferred while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.[1][2][3]
Possible effects of Apixaban on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Apixaban
Dalteparin, Enoxaparin, Heparin, Warfarin.
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/1. Bates SM, Greer IA, Middeldorp S et al. VTE, thrombophilia, antithrombotic therapy, and pregnancy: Antithrombotic Therapy and Prevention of Thrombosis, 9th ed: American College of Chest Physicians Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines. Chest. 2012;141 (2 Suppl):e691S-736S. PMID: 22315276
2. Vanassche T, Vandenbriele C, Peerlinck K, Verhamme P. Pharmacotherapy with oral Xa inhibitors for venous thromboembolism. Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2015;16:645-58. PMID: 25554350
3. Cohen H, Arachchillage DR, Beyer-Westendorf J et al. Direct oral anticoagulants and women. Semin Thromb Hemost. 2016. PMID: 27706531
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
