Eliquis, generically known as apixaban, is a popular blood thinner. The anticoagulant received FDA approval in 2012 to treat patients who have atrial fibrillation and who are at risk for stroke.

Eliquis belongs to a new generation of blood thinners known as thrombin inhibitors.  Thrombin is an enzyme in the blood that causes the blood to clot, hence Eliquis works to prevent blood clots in patients undergoing hip or knee replacement surgery.

Some injured patients have alleged that the drug works too well though, and has caused some patients to suffer dangerous side effects such as gastrointestinal bleeding.

This new generation of blood thinners is often advertised as being superior to the more traditional blood thinner warfarin, also known as Coumadin. Warfarin has been on the market for decades, and patients taking warfarin are required to follow a strict diet and undergo regular blood monitoring. The new generation of blood thinners do not have these same requirements.

While Eliquis may be more convenient, it shares a common side effect associated with all blood thinners – internal bleeding. Unfortunately for some patients, Eliquis has no known antidote.

When a patient taking warfarin begins to experience an uncontrolled bleed, medical professionals can give the patient a dose of vitamin k mixed with fresh or frozen plasma to counteract the bleeding. This is not the case for patients taking Eliquis.

Eliquis Side Effects: Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Gastrointestinal bleeding is a serious side effect.  Gastrointestinal bleeding is any bleeding that occurs in the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, colon, rectum and anus.  Signs of gastrointestinal bleeding include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath.

Signs of gastrointestinal bleeding should be taken seriously, especially if the patient is currently taking a blood thinner like Eliquis. Gastrointestinal bleeding can cause several serious complications if left undiagnosed or untreated.

In serious cases, the condition can result in death. If a person is experiencing any of the signs of gastrointestinal bleeding they should consult a medical professional immediately.

Eliquis Lawsuits

Patients who have suffered from gastrointestinal bleeding while taking Eliquis may be able to bring a lawsuit against the drug’s manufacturers.  Successful plaintiffs may receive compensation for their pain and suffering as well as their past and future medical bills.

An Eliquis lawsuit can be brought by an Eliquis patient or by family members who lost a loved one due to Eliquis side effects.

Bringing a lawsuit is a big decision and a consumer protection attorney can help potential plaintiffs review the facts and circumstances of their individual case before deciding which course of action to take.

Sometimes plaintiffs can choose whether or not to bring a lawsuit individually or as a class action lawsuit, but certain types of cases tend to lend themselves more towards one or the other.