Can You Safely Cut Eliquis in Half? Dosage Guidelines and Safety Precautions
Eliquis (apixaban) is a widely prescribed anticoagulant, or blood thinner, used to prevent strokes and treat blood clots like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). Because Eliquis is a high-cost brand-name medication and is available in two strengths (5 mg and 2.5 mg), patients often wonder: Can you safely cut Eliquis in half?
While the answer is generally “yes,” doing so requires strict adherence to safety protocols to ensure the medication remains effective.
Why People Consider Splitting Eliquis
The most common reason for splitting Eliquis is cost. For patients prescribed the 2.5 mg dose, purchasing the 5 mg strength and splitting it can significantly reduce monthly pharmacy expenses. Others may split the tablet to make it easier to swallow or because their doctor has recently adjusted their dosage.
Is It Safe to Split?
According to the FDA and medical experts, Eliquis tablets are technically “splittable.” Unlike some extended-release medications that become dangerous if crushed or cut, Eliquis is an immediate-release tablet. However, there are three primary risks to keep in mind:
Uneven Dosing: Eliquis tablets are not “scored” (they don’t have a pre-marked line down the middle). This makes it difficult to get two perfectly equal halves, which could lead to minor fluctuations in the amount of medicine you receive.
Loss of Coating: The tablets have a protective film coating. Cutting the pill exposes the medicine inside, which can make it taste bitter or more difficult to swallow.
Instability: Once the internal medicine is exposed to air and moisture, it can lose its potency over time.
How to Split Eliquis Safely
If your healthcare provider has approved splitting your medication, follow these guidelines to minimise risk:
Use a Pill Splitter: Do not try to break the tablet with your hands or a kitchen knife. A dedicated pill splitter provides a cleaner cut and reduces the risk of the tablet crumbling.
Split at the Time of Dosing: Never split a whole bottle of pills in advance. Only cut the tablet when you are ready to take it.
Store Properly: If you have a leftover half, place it back in the original bottle immediately. Ensure the cap is tight and the desiccant (moisture-absorbing packet) remains inside.
Discard Old Halves: If a split half has been sitting out for more than 24 hours, discard it. The medication may have degraded.
Important Safety Precautions
Before you reach for a pill cutter, it is vital to consult your doctor or pharmacist. Anticoagulants are high-risk medications; taking too little could lead to a life-threatening blood clot, while taking too much increases the risk of internal bleeding.
Additionally, remember that you should always swallow the halves whole. Never crush or dissolve the split tablet in water, as this can interfere with how the drug is absorbed into your bloodstream.
The Bottom Line
While splitting Eliquis is a viable way to manage costs or dosage, it must be done with precision. By using a proper tool, splitting only when needed, and maintaining constant communication with your medical team, you can ensure your treatment remains both safe and effective. Can You Safely Cut Eliquis (Apixaban)?