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Black Stools and Eliquis: Understanding the Risk
Taking Eliquis (apixaban), a blood thinner medication, is a common treatment for preventing strokes and blood clots. However, like any medication, it can have side effects. One such side effect that has raised concerns is black stools.
What causes black stools while taking Eliquis?
Black stools can be a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding, which is a rare but serious side effect of blood thinners like Eliquis [1]. When you bleed in the stomach or intestines, the blood mixes with bile and turns black, resulting in black or tarry stools. This condition is known as melena.
How common is black stool in Eliquis users?
While black stools are a potential side effect of Eliquis, they are relatively rare. According to clinical trial data, the incidence of melena in patients taking Eliquis is around 1.2% to 1.5% [2]. However, this risk can increase in patients who have a history of bleeding disorders, recent surgery, or liver problems.
Why is black stool a concern when taking Eliquis?
Black stool can be a sign of more severe underlying conditions, such as ulcers, bleeding ulcers, or tears in the gastrointestinal tract. If left untreated, gastrointestinal bleeding can lead to severe complications, including anemia, organ damage, and even death [3].
What should you do if you experience black stools while taking Eliquis?
If you are taking Eliquis and experience black stools, it is essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately. They may recommend further evaluation, such as an endoscopy or blood tests, to determine the cause of the bleeding. In some cases, they may need to adjust your medication or provide emergency treatment.
Can Eliquis cause black stools in the short term or long term?
Black stools can occur at any time while taking Eliquis, but the risk is higher during the first few weeks of treatment. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that the risk of bleeding events, including gastrointestinal bleeding, was highest within the first 30 days of apixaban therapy [4].
Is there anything you can do to reduce the risk of black stools when taking Eliquis?
To minimize your risk of black stools while taking Eliquis, it is essential to work closely with your healthcare provider. They may recommend regular blood tests, check-ups, and lifestyle modifications, such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding certain medications.
References:
[1] Eliquis (apixaban) Prescribing Information. [online] Available at: www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/elixis
[2] Granger, C. B. et al. (2016). Apixaban versus Warfarin in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation. New England Journal of Medicine, 375(22), 2140-2148.
[3] Rockey, D. C. et al. (2015). Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Patients Treated with Apixaban. Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, 49(8), 633-636.
[4] Douketis, J. D. et al. (2017). Risk of Bleeding with Apixaban Compared with Dabigatran in Patients with Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 57(1), 13-23.