Last reviewed · How we verify

Eliquis — mechanism of action

apixaban · Bristol-Myers Squibb

Apixaban selectively inhibits Factor Xa, decreasing thrombin generation and thrombus development.

How Eliquis works

Apixaban selectively inhibits Factor Xa, decreasing thrombin generation and thrombus development.

Detailed mechanism

Apixaban is a selective inhibitor of FXa that does not require antithrombin III for antithrombotic activity. It inhibits both free and clot-bound FXa, as well as prothrombinase activity. By inhibiting FXa, apixaban decreases thrombin generation and thrombus development. Apixaban has no direct effect on platelet aggregation but indirectly inhibits platelet aggregation induced by thrombin.

Molecular targetFactor Xa (FXa)
Drug classFactor Xa inhibitor

See also

Primary sources · FDA · ClinicalTrials.gov · EMA · SEC EDGAR · ChEMBL · Wikidata · full sourcing