For stroke prevention in non-valvular atrial fibrillation: Take one 5 mg tablet orally twice daily. If you meet at least two of the following criteria—age 80 or older, body weight 60 kg or less, or serum creatinine 1.5 mg/dL (133 micromole/L) or higher—the recommended dose is 2.5 mg twice daily. For DVT and PE prevention after hip or knee replacement: Take one 2.5 mg tablet orally twice daily. The initial dose should be taken 12 to 24 hours after surgery. For hip replacement surgery, continue for 32 to 38 days; for knee replacement surgery, continue for 10 to 14 days. Swallow tablets whole with water, with or without food. If unable to swallow, tablets can be crushed and mixed with water, 5% dextrose in water, apple juice, or applesauce, and consumed immediately.