What are the chances of getting a blood clot while on Eliquis

In this article:

• What are the chances of getting a blood clot while on Eliquis?
• How effective is Eliquis?
• Bottom line

In this article

• What are the chances of getting a blood clot while on Eliquis?
• How effective is Eliquis?
• Bottom line

Eliquis (apixaban) is a prescription blood thinner that helps prevent blood clots in individuals with heart conditions, blood vessel issues, certain types of cancer, or diseases that increase the risk of blood clotting. By blocking a protein that’s essential for clot formation, Eliquis significantly reduces the risk of clotting. But if you’re considering it, you might wonder exactly how much it reduces that risk. For most people, the risk of developing a blood clot while taking Eliquis is extremely low. We’ve got all the details below. 

What are the chances of getting a blood clot while on Eliquis?

Eliquis is good at what it does, preventing almost all blood clots. The key word, however, is “almost.” For people who take Eliquis as directed, it’s exceptionally rare to get a blood clot—but it’s still possible. 

According to the National Blood Clot Alliance, the chances of re-clotting while taking an anticoagulant consistently are no more than 1–2%. Research has confirmed this—one study found that only 1.3% of patients taking Eliquis experienced a stroke or a clotting event every year. So while it’s technically possible, it’s very unlikely. Eliquis significantly reduces the chances of redeveloping deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) as well. Clinical trials showed that patients taking Eliquis for DVT or PE had a 3.8% of recurrence, compared to 11.8% with a placebo. 

Why might clots occur while taking Eliquis?

When these clots do occur, it’s typically not because of the drug itself, but the way it’s taken. According to Dr. Elizabeth Rubin Ribak, MD, clinical advisor at Embers Recovery, “patients are still at risk of blood clot formation if a normal dose of Eliquis is missed, if another medication or supplement causes interference with Eliquis absorption or metabolism, or if the underlying cause of clotting is significantly high, such as in cancer patients, those with artificial heart valves, or during prolonged periods of immobility.”

For example, missing doses or taking the wrong dose can reduce Eliquis’ effectiveness, as can certain drugs that interact with it—specifically CYP3A4 inhibitors like ketoconazole, ritonavir, and clarithromycin, or CYP3A4 inducers like rifampin or carbamazepine. However, the effectiveness can vary based on several factors, including “adherence to medication regimen, liver or kidney disease, and interactions with other drugs (such as antifungals, seizure medication, or antibiotics),” Dr. Rubin Ribak says. 

Lifestyle choices can play a role too, says Dr. Rohit Vuppuluri, DO, interventional and vascular cardiologist at Chicago Heart & Vascular Specialists. “Smoking, prolonged immobility, obesity, certain cancers, hormone therapy, and dehydration can all raise the risk of blood clots — even in patients taking Eliquis,” he says. “I emphasize to my patients that both consistency and lifestyle changes, such as staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding tobacco, are important in preventing future blood clots.”

If Eliquis doesn’t seem to be working for you, speak with your healthcare provider about alternatives. They can help choose the best option for your particular medical condition. 

How effective is Eliquis?

In short: It’s one of the most effective blood thinners out there—even better than some of its most prominent peers. In a study of 3.9 million people with atrial fibrillation, patients taking Eliquis had lower rates of stroke and systemic embolism than those taking vitamin K antagonists (warfarin) or dabigatran (Pradaxa). Additionally, patients taking Eliquis had lower mortality rates than those taking rivaroxaban (Xarelto), and a significantly lower risk of major bleeding compared to patients taking either dabigatran or rivaroxaban. 

“Compared to warfarin, it offers consistent dosing, fewer drug and food interactions, and no need for regular INR blood tests. It also tends to have a lower risk of major bleeding, especially in the brain,” Dr. Vuppuluri says. “Unlike warfarin, Eliquis is much easier to take as it does not require regular blood tests and it does not interfere with your diet.

In fact, compared to warfarin, clinical trials found that Eliquis was better than warfarin in the reduction of the risk of stroke, systemic embolism, major bleeding, and mortality. And in a study of Medicare beneficiaries with atrial fibrillation, Eliquis was more effective than Xarelto in reducing the risk of major ischemic or hemorrhagic events. “However, for patients with certain mechanical heart valves or severe kidney disease, other anticoagulants may be better suited,” and “what’s ideal for one patient may not be right for another,” Dr. Vuppuluri says.

However, Eliquis only prevents blood clots from forming. It won’t dissolve existing ones. Removing existing clots requires thrombolytic drugs, such as Activase or Retavase, which activate enzymes that break down the proteins in blood clots. 

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Bottom line

For anyone taking Eliquis, the risk of forming new blood clots is extremely low. But it’s not zero. Each person’s risk depends on their specific medical condition, other health issues, adherence to the dosage schedule, and concurrent medications. If you’re concerned about the effectiveness of Eliquis, consult a healthcare professional. They’ll help you determine the safest and effective medicine and treatment plan for you.