Can You Take Eliquis And Gaviscon Together?
In our latest question and answer, our pharmacist discusses whether or not Eliquis can be taken with the antacid Gaviscon.
Eliquis (apixaban) and Gaviscon double action. Are they safe together?
Jan 22, 2023- Gaviscon and Eliquis are safe to take together with no known interaction between them.
- While Gaviscon is safe with Eliquis, you should avoid OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin with Eliquis because they increase bleeding risk.
- Always tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medications you're taking to check for potential interactions.
Answer
Great question! I always remind people to check into potential interactions with any type of OTC (over-the-counter) antacid, as there are many to be concerned about.
For example, antacids, like TUMS and Gaviscon, can significantly decrease the absorption of a number of different drugs, such as:
- Avelox (moxifloxacin)
- Mycophenolate
- Doxycycline
- Azithromycin
- Gabapentin
- Levothyroxine
Fortunately, there is no known interaction between Gaviscon, which contains aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate, and Eliquis (apixaban). They are considered safe to take with one another.
Are There OTC Drugs To Be Concerned About With Eliquis?
Although Gaviscon is safe to take with Eliquis, there are some OTC medications that you shouldn't take unless recommended by your doctor. This includes:
- Advil (ibuprofen)
- Aleve (naproxen)
- Aspirin
- Grapefruit Juice/supplements
- St. John's Wort
- Green tea
- Ginger
All of the above increase your risk of bleeding if combined with Eliquis.
Antacids, as mentioned, are generally safe, however.
Always be sure to let your doctor and pharmacist know about all the drugs you are taking.
Final Words
Thanks so much for reaching out! I hope you found this helpful.
Glossary — Terms in This Answer
- OTC (over-the-counter)
- Medications that you can buy without a prescription from a doctor.
- Antacids
- Medications that reduce stomach acid to relieve heartburn and indigestion.
- Absorption
- The process by which a drug enters the bloodstream and is taken up by the body.
- Eliquis (apixaban)
- A prescription blood thinner medication used to prevent blood clots.
- Aluminum hydroxide
- An active ingredient in some antacids that neutralizes stomach acid.
- Magnesium carbonate
- An active ingredient in some antacids that helps neutralize stomach acid.
- Interaction
- When two drugs affect each other in a way that changes how one or both of them work in your body.
- Bleeding risk
- The increased likelihood that an injury or internal damage will cause excessive blood loss when taking certain medications.
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Doctor of Pharmacy, board certified clinical pharmacist (BCPS), American Herbalist Guild, Medication Therapy Management certified
Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS, is a licensed pharmacist with more than 13 years of experience across retail pharmacy, clinical pharmacy, medication safety, pharmacy program development, and healthcare administration. He is the founder of HelloPharmacist.com, where he helps patients...
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