Eliquis (apixaban) has received Health Canada approval for the treatment of venous thromboembolic events (VTE) and the prevention of recurrent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) in adults.

Venous thromboembolism (VTE), encompasses two serious conditions: DVT and PE. DVT is a blood clot in a vein, usually in the lower leg, thigh, or pelvis, which partially or totally blocks the flow of blood.2 DVT causes multiple symptoms including pain, swelling, and redness, and more importantly, can progress to PE, which carries the risk of sudden death.

PE occurs when a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg or pelvis detaches and travels to the lung via the heart, blocking one or more of the pulmonary arteries. Without immediate treatment, the resulting loss of lung function can cause sudden death or long-term damage to the lungs and other vital organs. VTE affects about 45,000 Canadians per year.

For more details, go to: http://www.bmscanada.ca/en/news/release/eliquis-approved-for-treatment-of-venous-thromboembolic-events-deep-vein-thrombosis-dvt-pulmonary-em