Apixaban Level
Also known as: APIX
Use
The Apixaban Level test is used to measure the concentration of apixaban, a direct oral anticoagulant, in the patient's bloodstream. Apixaban is commonly used in the treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) and the test is vital in monitoring the therapeutic levels to ensure efficacy and minimize adverse effects. Clinicians use this test to adjust dosages and ensure patients remain within the therapeutic window, avoiding both sub-therapeutic and toxic levels.
Special Instructions
Collect specimens using a Lt. blue (sodium citrate) collection tube as per ARUP guidelines. Transport the specimen promptly to ensure the sample remains viable; refer to the Specimen Handling section on the ARUP website for detailed instructions.
Limitations
This assay is specifically designed for measuring apixaban levels and cannot accurately quantitate other anticoagulants such as unfractionated heparin, low molecular weight heparin, rivaroxaban, edoxaban, and fondaparinux. It should not be used to monitor other medications or for drug interactions. Results may not correlate with coagulation parameters such as PT or aPTT.
New York Approved
Methodology
Chromogenic Assay
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 74214-8
Result Turnaround Time
1-8 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Lt. blue (sodium citrate)
Collection Instructions
Transport 2 mL platelet-poor plasma. Use sodium citrate tubes for collection and follow ARUP's detailed guidelines for specimen handling to ensure sample integrity.
Storage Instructions
CRITICAL FROZEN. Store specimens immediately after processing to maintain stability.
Causes for Rejection
Serum, EDTA, oxalate, heparin, or plasma separator tubes, and hemolyzed specimens are not acceptable.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 4 hours |
| Refrigerated | Unacceptable |
| Frozen | 1 month |