Key takeaways
Eliquis (apixaban) and aspirin are both used to prevent blood clots but they work differently and have different uses. Eliquis is an anticoagulant that blocks a specific clotting factor (protein). It’s FDA approved to prevent strokes and treat blood clots in people with atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). It is typically taken twice a day. It can cause bleeding and bruising as a side effect. Severe bleeding can also happen, but it’s rare. Aspirin is an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps with pain and fever. It can also prevent stroke and heart attack by stopping platelets from clumping together, but it’s used in different groups of people than Eliquis, such as people who’ve had a heart attack or stroke. It’s taken daily in low doses (81 mg) for heart protection. Heartburn and stomach upset are common side effects. Bleeding and ulcers are more rare but serious risks, especially with long-term use. Unlike Eliquis, aspirin is available as a generic.
