Taking Eliquis With Motherwort
In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses the combined use of Eliquis and motherwort.
If Eliquis interacts with motherwort, is there a serious interaction?
Apr 28, 2024- Research suggests that taking motherwort by mouth does not appear to cause a significant interaction with Eliquis or affect blood clotting in a clinically meaningful way.
- Before starting motherwort while taking Eliquis, talk with your doctor so they can monitor you and give guidance specific to your situation.
- If you do take both medications together, watch for signs of bleeding like easy bruising, gum bleeding, or dark stools and report these to your doctor.
Answer
Hello, and thank you for reaching out to us!
It's certainly a good idea to investigate potential interactions between over-the-counter supplements and prescription drugs, especially when taking an anticoagulant medication like Eliquis, as many supplements have been shown to affect how blood can clot.
Motherwort, which you asked about in your question to us, is a versatile herb used for various purposes. Research suggests it possesses anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Additionally, it has been traditionally used to address nervous system disorders, menstrual disorders and support cardiovascular health.
Regarding a possible interaction between Eliquis (apixaban) and motherwort, data is limited, making it challenging to draw definitive conclusions. Research indicates that taking motherwort orally does not seem to affect blood coagulation to a clinically significant extent or interact with Eliquis, as reported on our interaction page.
However, one study found that regular intravenous administration of a motherwort extract over 15 days reduced blood viscosity, lowered fibrinogen levels, and inhibited platelet aggregation. It is unclear whether consuming motherwort orally has these effects. I could not find reports of oral motherwort causing an increased bleeding risk (which would of course cause a problem in those already taking antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs, like Eliquis).
Overall, there is no strong evidence of an interaction between Eliquis and motherwort when taken orally, but targeted studies are lacking.
Before starting motherwort, it is advisable to consult with your doctor so you can be appropriately monitored and for specific guidance about your medical situation. If you take both Eliquis and motherwort, monitor for signs of bleeding, such as easy bruising, gum bleeding, or darkened stools.
Final Words
I hope this information is helpful! Please feel free to reach out with any further questions.
References & sources
Glossary — Terms in This Answer
- Anticoagulant
- A medication that prevents blood from clotting or thickens existing clots.
- Eliquis
- A prescription anticoagulant medication (apixaban) used to prevent blood clots.
- Anti-inflammatory
- A substance that reduces swelling and irritation in the body.
- Antimicrobial
- A substance that kills or stops the growth of harmful microorganisms like bacteria.
- Antioxidant
- A substance that protects cells from damage caused by unstable molecules called free radicals.
- Blood viscosity
- The thickness of blood and how easily it flows through blood vessels.
- Fibrinogen
- A protein in blood that helps form clots.
- Platelet aggregation
- The clumping together of blood cells called platelets, which is necessary for blood clotting.
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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