Are Glutathione Supplement Safe To Take With Eliquis?

In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses whether or not it is safe to take glutathione supplements with Eliquis.

Question

Can you take glutathione while taking Eliquis (apixaban)?

Asked by Valiant On Sep 30, 2024

Answered by
Medical Content Reviewed By HelloPharmacist Staff

Published Sep 30, 2024
Last updated Jan 14, 2025

Answer

Thanks for reaching out!

There are no known interactions between glutathione and Eliquis (apixaban), as we detail on our website (Glutathione - Apixaban Interaction Details | HelloPharmacist).

Glutathione actually has no drug interactions listed on our website, and there is no evidence to suggest that glutathione affects the anticoagulant action of Eliquis or alters its effectiveness. Therefore, taking it alongside Eliquis is generally considered safe.

However, it's important to note that dietary supplements like glutathione aren't typically very well studied in regard to potential drug interactions, so caution is warranted.

Additional Information About Glutathione

Glutathione is a molecule composed of three amino acids: glycine, cysteine, and glutamic acid. It exists naturally in the body and is primarily synthesized in the liver.

It plays a crucial role in various physiological processes and is primarily taken as a supplement because it is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.

Several factors like aging, stress, poor nutrition, and exposure to toxins can deplete glutathione levels. Supplementation is thought to help replenish these levels, potentially enhancing the body's antioxidant defenses, aiding in detoxification processes, and promoting overall well-being.

About Eliquis (Apixaban)

Eliquis is an anticoagulant medication that works by inhibiting Factor Xa, an essential protein in the blood clotting process. It is commonly prescribed to prevent stroke and systemic embolism in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, and to treat or prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).

Final Words

Overall glutathione is a popular supplement and one that is generally considered safe to take, but please check with your doctor first before adding anything on to your current medication regimen.

I hope you found this helpful, and feel free to reach back out with any other questions.

As always, it's a good idea to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially when you are taking medications like Eliquis that have significant effects on blood clotting.

References

  • Glutathione: an overview of biosynthesis and modulation, PubMed
  • Glutathione in health and disease: pharmacotherapeutic issues, PubMed
  • Eliquis Prescribing Information, AccessFDA

About the Pharmacist

Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD

Dr. Brian has been practicing pharmacy for over 13 years and has wide-ranging experiences in many different areas of the profession. From retail, clinical, program development, and administrative responsibilities, he's your knowledgeable and go-to source for all your pharmacy and medication-related questions! Dr. Brian Staiger also has herbalist training and educational certificates in the field of medical ethnobotany. Feel free to send him an email at [email protected]! You can also connect with Dr. Brian Staiger on LinkedIn.

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