Russ asked
I'm taking apixaban 5mg and carvedilol 12.5mg. Can I take Tylenol Extra Strength with these medications?
Answer
Eliquis (Apixaban) is an anticoagulant used in the treatment of deep vein thrombosis, atrial fibrillation and pulmonary embolism. Coreg (Carvedilol) is an blood pressure/heart medication used in the treatment of high blood pressure and heart failure. There are no drug interactions between these drugs and Tylenol Extra Strength.
Eliquis (Apixaban) can have interactions with other pain relievers such aspirin and any non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) like ibuprofen or naproxen. Aspirin and NSAID drugs taken with Eliquis (Apixaban) can potentially cause an increase in the likelihood of bleeding when taken together. Therefore, when patients are in need of a pain reliever, Tylenol (Acetaminophen) is the best drug to take. More information on taking anti-coagulants can be found below.
Important Information For Patient’s On Anticoagulant Therapy
Patients on anticoagulant therapy should be aware of the proper way to take a medication like Eliquis (Apixaban) and the risks associated with such a drug. When taken correctly, the chance of increased bleeding risks can be diminished. Some important things to keep in mind include:
- Take the medication exactly as prescribed. Do not skip doses. If a dose of Eliquis (Apixaban) is missed, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Should two doses accidentally be taken, call your health care provider.
- Know the signs and symptoms of bleeding. These include: bruising, bleeding when brushing teeth, vomiting blood, bleeding from a cut that won’t stop, bleeding rectally and excessive tiredness. Your healthcare provider should be contacted for any unexplained bleeding.
- Make sure all healthcare providers are aware you are on anticoagulant therapy.
- Have an ID bracelet or medical identification that states you are on anticoagulant therapy and which drug it is.
Anticoagulant therapy can be well managed for a patient when medication and therapy plans are followed as directed. Keeping all a patient’s health care providers up to date on a patient’s health status can minimize side effects that can occur. It is important that any change in health or bleeding problems be reported to the doctor immediately so potential problems can be caught early.
Conclusion
Tylenol (Acetaminophen) is a safe pain reliever to take while on Eliquis (Apixaban) and Coreg (Carvedilol). Other pain relievers such as aspirin and NSAIDS like ibuprofen or naproxen can increase the likelihood of bleeding with Eliquis (Apixaban). Patients on anticoagulation therapy should take their medication as directed and be in communication with their doctors or other health care providers with any side effects or changes in health status.
