Cindy asked
Can I take tramadol with Eliquis?
Answer
There is no drug-drug interaction between tramadol and Eliquis. However, caution is advised when using tramadol while taking any anticoagulant medication, such as Eliquis, due to the increased risk of bleeding, although this is relatively uncommon. Below, we discuss this risk in more detail.
Taking Tramadol With Eliquis
Eliquis
Eliquis (apixaban) is an oral anti-coagulant medication indicated for the prevention of stroke and systemic embolism. It is in the same medication class as Pradaxa and Xarelto. It works by inhibiting Factor Xa, which is an important component of how blood coagulates in our body.
One of the advantages of Eliquis over the more commonly used blood thinner warfarin, is that it is associated with fewer bleeding risks. Nevertheless, care needs to be taken when adding on additional medications that can cause bleeding.
Tramadol
Tramadol has a unique mechanism of action. It is opioid agonist similar to hydrocodone and oxycodone although is considered less potent. In addition to its opioid effects, it also works as both a serotonin and norepinephrine re-uptake inhibitor, increasing levels of both.
Serotonin re-uptake inhibitors are known to increase the risk of certain types of bleeding events, such as upper GI bleeds. As tramadol can increase serotonin levels, it is associated with a risk of bleeding, although the risk is thought to be small.
Tramadol And Eliquis Bleeding Risk
There are no studies that evaluate just how much the increased risk of bleeding is when taking tramadol with Eliquis. The combination may be taken safely in some situationsbut is important to be aware of the risk of bleeding and watch for symptoms of bleeding such as:
- Easy bruising
- Blood in the stool
- Bleeding of the gums
If tramadol and Eliquis were not prescribed by the same doctor, be sure to let your doctors know all the medication you take so you can be properly advised of the risks and how to take them together.
