Eliquis With Fluconazole Drug Interaction

Answer

There is a drug interaction between Eliquis (apixaban) and fluconazole that is important to be aware. Combining these medications can increase the risk of bleeding.

If there are alternatives to fluconazole available to you, they may represent a safer option. Otherwise, it is important to look out for any signs or symptoms of possible bleeding and talk to your doctor right away if they occur.

Eliquis - Fluconazole Interaction Details

As mentioned, the combination of Eliquis and fluconazole increases the risk of bleeding.

This happens because fluconazole is a strong inhibitor of the metabolizing enzyme CYP3A4, the enzyme responsible for breaking down Eliquis. Inhibition of this enzyme by fluconazole increases concentration of Eliquis in your system, which increases the risk of dose-dependent side effects.

One large scale study involving over 100,000 individuals, concluded the following:

In patients with atrial fibrillation on either apixaban [Eliquis], rivaroxaban, or dabigatran, an association between an elevated bleeding risk and use of systemic fluconazole was found among patients on apixaban [Eliquis].

The study findings were pretty significant. Those taking the drug combination had a 3.5-fold increased risk of bleeding compared to those not taking both drugs and the most common type of bleed was gastrointestinal bleeding.

How To Manage The Interaction

If possible, consider alternatives to fluconazole if you are taking Eliquis.

Oftentimes, topical antifungal therapy can be used to treat a fungal infection, and topical antifungals have not been shown to have this interaction with Eliquis.

You mentioned in your question that you use fluconazole for yeast infections. Alternatives for you could include intravaginal drugs, such as Monistat or terconazole.

If you and your doctor decide that fluconazole is the best option for you, and you take Eliquis, be sure to monitor for signs of bleeding, such as:

• Easy bruising
• Bleeding gums
• Black or tarry stool
• Feeling faint or dizzy
• Paleness

Be sure to speak with your doctor immediately if you feel you are experiencing side effects from the drug combination.

Final Words

I hope this answer helped! Reach back out anytime.