Can I take Apixaban and Ibuprofen together?

You should avoid taking ibuprofeno while you are on apixabán unless specifically instructed to do so by your doctor as taking them together can significantly increases your risk of serious bleeding.

If you need pain relief, paracetamol is generally a safer alternative.

Por qué sucede esto

Both medicines affect how your blood clots, but in different ways. Apixaban is an anticoagulant (blood thinner) that interferes with clotting proteins. Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that prevents platelets (tiny blood cells) from sticking together.

When used together, they have an 'additive' effect, making the blood much thinner than intended. Additionally, ibuprofen can irritate the lining of the stomach, making stomach ulcers and bleeding more likely.

You may be experiencing an interaction between apixaban and ibuprofen if:

• You notice unusual bruising or bleeding, such as nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or easy bruising.

• You have blood in your urine or stools, or black, tarry stools.

• You experience severe or persistent headaches, dizziness, or lightheadedness.

• You develop stomach pain, indigestion, or ulcers.

• Te sientes inusualmente cansado o débil sin una razón clara.

• Symptoms appear soon after starting or increasing the dose of ibuprofen while taking apixaban.
  

Si tienes alguno de los síntomas mencionados, deberías:

• Seek urgent medical advice or contact your GP immediately.

• Do not stop taking apixaban unless instructed by a healthcare professional.

• Avoid taking ibuprofen or other AINEs until you have spoken to a doctor or pharmacist.

• Informe a su profesional de la salud sobre todos los medicamentos y suplementos que está tomando.

• Attend any blood tests or check-ups recommended to monitor bleeding risk.

Asma

Do not take ibuprofen if you have asthma that is worsened by aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as it can trigger a life-threatening asthma attack.

Emergency surgery or injury

Always carry your anticoagulant alert card. In the event of a serious injury or emergency surgery, healthcare staff must know you are on apixaban because your blood will not clot normally.

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol while taking these medicines can increase the risk of bleeding in your stomach. It is best to limit your alcohol intake or avoid it altogether. If you do drink, keep to the recommended low-risk limits (no more than 14 units a week).

Food (general)

You should ideally take ibuprofen with food or a glass of milk. This helps to protect your stomach lining and reduces the risk of indigestion or stomach irritation.

Taking multiple medicines? Our Verificador de Interacciones de Medicamentos helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Descargo de responsabilidad

Esta información es solo para fines educativos generales y no debe considerarse como un sustituto del consejo médico profesional. Siempre consulte a su médico de cabecera, farmacéutico u otro profesional de la salud calificado antes de tomar decisiones sobre sus medicamentos. Las circunstancias individuales pueden variar, y solo un profesional de la salud que conozca su historial médico puede proporcionar orientación personalizada.