Cardiologist Questions Cardiologist

Safe to wean off Eliquis after lung blood clots?

I’m a little distressed because I’ve asked both my primary and the cardiologist I have an apt with later this month about weaning off the Eliquis slowly since they only prescribed it for 3 months after my covid hospitalization for many pulmonary embolisms. I’m 62 years old and had one DVT in a minor lower leg vein many many years ago and was on a different medication for a few months and was taken off of it.

Both doctors just said to finish taking the 5mg twice a day until I’m out. I think this may be risky to just jump off it like that and preferred to wean off more gradually. Should I cut them in half twice a day then take a half once a day? What’s best to do after covid?

Female | 62 years old
Complaint duration: 3 months & 10 days
Medications: Eliquis, BP med and regular meds
Conditions: Covid caused pneumonia and pulmonary embolisms & now high blood pressure

4 Answers

CardiologistCardiologist
Hello, Weaning off Eliquis apixaban after a pulmonary embolism PE depends
Follow the instructions giving by the doctor.
For some reason and risk, you may ask another outpatient cardiologist and continue using Eliquis daily due to your DVT and pulmonary risks. Also getting checked by a vascular specialist is helpful.
This is a tough challenge due to there being no data on the impact of the SARS CoV-2 Virus on long term clotting risk. There are risks that are associated with taking the medication itself as well that has been well documented. I don't know if there is a "best to do" in this scenario. I think it's important to have this ongoing discussion with your doctors periodically since more and more data are coming out. I hope this helps.