Can I Take Eliquis with Diabetes Medications? What Americans Should Know Before Ordering from Canada
Can I Take Eliquis with Diabetes Medications? What Americans Should Know Before Ordering from Canada
Understanding the Relationship Between Eliquis and Diabetes Medications
If you’re taking Eliquis (apixaban) for atrial fibrillation or to prevent blood clots, and also managing type 2 diabetes with medications like Metformin, Ozempic, or Jardiance, you may wonder how these drugs interact. The good news? For most people, these medications can be taken together safely—but there are key things to watch out for.
Eliquis, a blood thinner, doesn’t directly interfere with blood sugar levels. However, some diabetes medications may increase your risk of bleeding or bruising when taken with Eliquis. Understanding these risks—and working with your healthcare provider—is essential.
Common Diabetes Medications That May Interact with Eliquis
Let’s take a closer look at how Eliquis interacts with the most commonly used diabetes drugs:
1. Metformin
Metformin is generally safe to use with Eliquis. There is no known direct drug interaction, but both medications should be taken as prescribed. Patients with kidney issues should be closely monitored since both drugs rely on kidney function to clear from the body.
2. Ozempic and GLP-1 Agonists
GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Mounjaro don’t have a direct interaction with Eliquis. However, they can sometimes cause gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea, which could lead to dehydration. Dehydration may increase your risk of side effects with blood thinners, so it’s best to monitor closely.
3. SGLT2 Inhibitors (Jardiance, Farxiga)
These medications can cause increased urination and dehydration, which again can increase bleeding risk if you’re on a blood thinner. Drink plenty of fluids and monitor for signs of dizziness or weakness.
4. Sulfonylureas or Insulin
These medications increase your risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). If you experience a fall, fainting, or injury during a low blood sugar episode, the risk of serious bleeding on Eliquis becomes a concern. Use extra caution and monitor your blood sugars closely.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
Even if you’re not experiencing side effects, it’s smart to ask your doctor or pharmacist the following:
Is my blood thinner dose appropriate considering my diabetes medications?
Should I have more frequent monitoring (bloodwork, INR, renal function)?
What signs should I watch for when taking both types of medications?
Some warning signs that should prompt immediate attention:
Unexplained bruising
Bleeding gums or nose
Blood in urine or stool
Severe dizziness or weakness
Unexpected fatigue or shortness of breath
Always speak to a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medications.
How Americans Can Save on Eliquis by Ordering from Canada
Eliquis can be very expensive in the U.S., especially without insurance. That’s where services like Over the Border Meds come in. Our Canadian prescription referral service helps American patients access medications like Eliquis and its generic version, Apixaban, at significantly lower prices.
For example, a one-month supply of Eliquis in the U.S. can cost over $600, while from Canada, it’s available for around $151—and even less if you opt for generic Apixaban.
Ordering from Canada is:
Legal for personal use in a 90-day supply
Safe, with medications coming from licensed Canadian pharmacies
Cost-effective, especially for chronic conditions like atrial fibrillation and diabetes
Our pharmacists also work with you to ensure safe combinations of medications, including Eliquis and diabetes drugs.
Final Thoughts: Safety and Savings Can Go Hand-in-Hand
Eliquis can usually be taken safely alongside diabetes medications—but patient awareness is key. Always watch for signs of bleeding or changes in blood sugar. And if you’re concerned about the high cost of your prescriptions, ordering from Canada through Over the Border Meds might be the right move.
We’re here to help patients—and providers—navigate the best and safest path forward. Let us know if you need support from a pharmacist or help determining if your medication combinations are safe.