What Happens If You Miss a Dose of Eliquis? Understanding the Risks and What to Do Next

What Happens If You Miss a Dose of Eliquis? Understanding the Risks and What to Do Next

Eliquis (apixaban) is a widely prescribed blood thinner used to prevent strokes, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and pulmonary embolism (PE). Like most anticoagulants, it must be taken consistently to be effective. Missing a dose can increase the risk of dangerous blood clots, making it important to know what to do if you forget to take Eliquis on time.

This guide will explain why taking Eliquis on schedule matters, the risks of missing a dose, and what steps to take if you forget to take it.

Why Taking Eliquis on Time Is Important

Eliquis works by blocking Factor Xa, a protein involved in blood clot formation. By doing so, it reduces the risk of clots that could lead to stroke, DVT, or pulmonary embolism.

However, its effects do not last long once a dose is missed. Unlike older blood thinners such as warfarin, Eliquis does not require frequent blood monitoring, but that also means there’s no easy way to measure its thinning effect in real time.

Since Eliquis has a short half-life (about 12 hours), missing just one dose could lower its protective effect and leave you vulnerable to clotting.

What Happens If You Miss a Dose of Eliquis?

The impact of a missed dose depends on how much time has passed. Here’s what can happen if you forget to take Eliquis:

  • Increased Risk of Blood Clots – Since Eliquis prevents clot formation, missing a dose means your blood may return to its normal clotting function, increasing the risk of stroke, DVT, or PE.
  • Stroke Risk in Atrial Fibrillation Patients – If you take Eliquis for atrial fibrillation (AFib), missing a dose could temporarily increase your risk of stroke, especially if multiple doses are skipped.
  • DVT or Pulmonary Embolism Risk – If you take Eliquis for deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, missing a dose could allow existing clots to grow or increase the risk of new clots forming.
  • Bleeding Risks After Restarting – Skipping doses and then taking multiple doses close together could increase bleeding risk.

What to Do If You Miss a Dose of Eliquis

If you forget to take Eliquis, follow these guidelines:

  • If you remember within 6 hours of your scheduled dose: Take the missed dose as soon as possible and continue with your next dose at the regular time.
  • If more than 6 hours have passed: Skip the missed dose and take the next dose as scheduled. Do not take two doses at once to make up for the missed one.
  • If you have missed multiple doses: Contact your doctor immediately for guidance. They may advise a temporary adjustment or additional precautions.
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Symptoms to Watch for After Missing a Dose

If you’ve missed a dose of Eliquis, be aware of these warning signs that could indicate a problem:

Signs of a Blood Clot (DVT or PE)

  • Swelling, redness, or pain in the leg (possible DVT)
  • Sudden shortness of breath (possible pulmonary embolism)
  • Chest pain or rapid heartbeat
  • Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting

Signs of a Stroke (For AFib Patients)

  • Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side
  • Confusion or difficulty speaking
  • Loss of balance or coordination
  • Blurred vision or trouble seeing in one or both eyes

Signs of Excessive Bleeding

  • Unexplained bruising or prolonged bleeding from small cuts
  • Blood in urine or stools (red or dark, tarry stools)
  • Heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Severe headache (possible internal bleeding in the brain)

If you experience any of these symptoms after missing a dose, seek immediate medical attention.

eliquis and skipping a dose

When to Call Your Doctor

You should contact your healthcare provider if:

  • You have missed multiple doses and are unsure how to restart.
  • You experience signs of a blood clot or stroke after missing a dose.
  • You accidentally take an extra dose and experience unusual bruising or bleeding.
  • You’re struggling to remember doses and need a better medication management plan.

Tips to Avoid Missing a Dose of Eliquis

Since taking Eliquis on time is crucial for preventing clots, here are some tips to help ensure you don’t forget:

  • Set a Daily Alarm or Reminder: Use a smartphone alarm or a pill-tracking app.
  • Use a Pill Organizer: Weekly or monthly organizers can help track doses.
  • Keep a Spare Dose with You: If you travel or have an unpredictable schedule, carry an extra dose in case you forget.
  • Link Eliquis to a Routine: Take it at the same time as another daily habit, such as brushing your teeth or eating a meal.
  • Talk to Your Doctor About Adjustments: If you have trouble adhering to twice-daily dosing, ask if once-daily alternatives like Xarelto (rivaroxaban) might be an option.

Final Thoughts

Missing a dose of Eliquis can increase the risk of blood clots, stroke, or DVT, so it’s essential to take it as prescribed. If you forget a dose, take it as soon as possible if within 6 hours, but if more time has passed, skip it and continue with your regular schedule.

Understanding the risks of missing doses and taking proactive steps can help ensure your treatment remains effective. If you have concerns about adherence or experience side effects, speak with your doctor about solutions to keep you on track