skip to main content

Apixaban dose reduction — GPhC CRA MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardCardiovascular TherapeuticsApixaban dose reductionGPhC CRA

A 63-year-old man is prescribed apixaban 5mg twice daily for AF. His weight is 61kg, serum creatinine is 150micromol/L and he is 82 years old according to the GP record. What is the most appropriate action?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Query whether apixaban should be reduced because two dose-reduction criteria are met

For non-valvular AF, apixaban dose reduction is indicated when at least two criteria are met: age 80 years or over, body weight 60kg or less, and serum creatinine 133micromol/L or greater. This patient meets age and creatinine criteria, so the dose should be queried. The pharmacist should not independently alter a prescription label to a different prescribed dose. Aspirin is not an alternative for stroke prevention in AF.

Reference: BNF