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Natural Blood Thinners vs Eliquis
Introduction
For patients with conditions such as atrial fibrillation or deep vein thrombosis that risk the formation of harmful blood clots, certain substances can help thin the blood and reduce clotting. Natural Blood Thinners like fish oil and turmeric, along with anticoagulant drugs like Eliquis are often recommended to manage these conditions. These options work differently in preventing unwanted clotting but both effectively prevent stroke or other serious vascular events.
Natural Blood Thinners consist mainly of food supplements and spices known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Fish oil works by reducing platelet aggregation while turmeric prevents platelets from forming clots. On the other hand, Eliquis (Apixaban) is a Factor Xa inhibitor which directly interferes with the body's natural clotting mechanism to prevent thrombus formation.
It's important to note that while natural options may have fewer side effects, they might not be sufficient for everyone especially those at high risk of embolic events. Therefore, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider before making any changes in your treatment plan.
What is Natural Blood Thinners?
Natural blood thinners, such as foods and supplements high in vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids, and salicylates have long been utilized to reduce the risk of blood clotting. They work by reducing platelet aggregation in your bloodstream, essentially making it more difficult for clots to form. These natural remedies are easily accessible from your local grocery or health food store but may not be potent enough for individuals at a higher risk of developing dangerous blood clots.
On the other hand, Apixaban (the generic name for Eliquis) is among the new generation of anticoagulants that were introduced into the market after Warfarin. It was first approved by the FDA in 2012. Eliquis inhibits Factor Xa within the coagulation cascade which slows down clot formation effectively “trapping” platelets from forming a thrombus that could potentially lead to strokes or heart attacks. It is prescribed mainly for stroke prevention in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation and for prophylaxis and treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). One of its main advantages over older anticoagulants like warfarin is that it has fewer drug interactions which makes it safer regarding bleeding complications.
What conditions is Natural Blood Thinners approved to treat?
Natural blood thinners are often used as an alternative or complement to traditional anticoagulant medications:
- They may help prevent clot formation and improve cardiovascular health.
- Some natural substances, such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil, garlic extracts, and vitamin E have mild anticoagulant effects.
On the other hand, Eliquis (apixaban) is a prescription medication that has gained FDA approval for:
- Reducing the risk of stroke in people with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation
- Treating deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), and reducing the risk of these conditions occurring again after initial treatment
How does Natural Blood Thinners help with these illnesses?
Natural blood thinners, such as foods rich in vitamin E or certain spices like ginger and turmeric, can help to prevent the formation of blood clots by inhibiting platelet aggregation. Platelets are small cells in the blood that stick together to form a clot when there is damage to a blood vessel. By preventing these platelets from sticking together, natural blood thinners can reduce the risk of developing dangerous clots. On the other hand, Eliquis (apixaban) works slightly differently; it directly inhibits Factor Xa, an enzyme crucial for coagulation cascade leading to clot formation inside our body. This makes Eliquis one of the most effective anticoagulant drugs available today. While it's not affected by diet and has fewer interactions with other medications compared with older anticoagulants, its effects may be too strong for some people and unlike certain natural alternatives, regular monitoring through lab tests may be required.
What is Eliquis?
Eliquis, a brand name for apixaban, is an anticoagulant medication that reduces the formation of blood clots by blocking the activity of certain clotting substances in the blood. It was first approved by the FDA in 2012 and it's especially beneficial to those with atrial fibrillation (a heart rhythm disorder) who are at higher risk of stroke. Unlike natural supplements or foods that can thin blood like garlic or omega-3 fatty acids, Eliquis has a predictable effect on coagulation pathways due to its targeted mechanism of action. This makes it more reliable than non-prescription alternatives as its dosage can be precisely adjusted according to patient requirements and conditions such as kidney function. Eliquis does not cause dietary restrictions and interactions associated with some other anticoagulants but patients must carefully follow their physicians' dosing instructions due to risks related to bleeding complications if overdosed or thrombosis if underdosed.
What conditions is Eliquis approved to treat?
Eliquis is a prescription medication that has been approved by the FDA for use in certain situations where blood thinning is necessary. These conditions include:
- Prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in people with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation
- Treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), as well as to prevent their recurrence
How does Eliquis help with these illnesses?
Eliquis is a type of anticoagulant or blood thinner that works by inhibiting the clotting process. It blocks certain proteins in the body, specifically Factor Xa, to prevent blood clots from forming and potentially leading to stroke or systemic embolism. Blood thinners are essential for patients with conditions such as atrial fibrillation not caused by heart valve disease or who have had hip or knee replacement surgery. While natural alternatives like dietary changes can lead to minor reductions in blood clot risk, they may not provide sufficient protection for individuals at high risk of serious cardiovascular events. Eliquis offers targeted inhibition of specific steps in the coagulation cascade, making it an effective choice when more significant anticoagulation is needed. Moreover, unlike some other traditional blood thinners such as warfarin, Eliquis does not require regular monitoring and has fewer interactions with food and other medications.
How effective are both Natural Blood Thinners and Eliquis?
Both natural blood thinners and apixaban (Eliquis) have their own roles in the prevention of clot formation, but they work through different pathways. Natural blood thinners such as foods rich in vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids or garlic are often recommended for overall cardiovascular health, while Eliquis is a prescription medication approved by the FDA in 2012 specifically for preventing stroke and systemic embolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation.
A direct comparison between these two categories is challenging due to differences in their nature and usage. However, a comprehensive review showed that natural options can potentially reduce platelet aggregation and improve hemostasis balance.[1] Yet these effects might not be potent enough to compare with pharmaceutical-grade anticoagulants like Eliquis. Furthermore, dietary changes do not usually present immediate results nor carry predictable outcomes compared to medications.
The efficacy of Eliquis has been proven through rigorous clinical trials including ARISTOTLE [2], which established its superiority over warfarin regarding stroke or systemic embolism incidence reduction among patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. It also demonstrated fewer bleeding events than warfarin.
While both can play a part in maintaining heart health and reducing risk of thromboembolic events it's important to note that relying solely on natural methods without consulting healthcare providers may lead to insufficient protection especially for high-risk individuals. In contrast, using prescribed drugs like Eliquis should always be under medical supervision due to potential side effects such as excessive bleeding risks.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6524077/ [2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21728290/
At what dose is Natural Blood Thinners typically prescribed?
The usage of natural blood thinners varies significantly depending on the type and form consumed. For instance, consuming a healthy quantity of foods like garlic, ginger, and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids can contribute to thinner blood naturally. However, it's crucial to note that these cannot replace medication or be as effective as prescribed drugs like Eliquis for patients with conditions such as atrial fibrillation or deep vein thrombosis. The standard dosage for Eliquis is typically 5 mg taken orally twice a day. In some cases, particularly for patients aged 80 years and above or those who have kidney issues or low body weight (less than 60 kg), the recommended dose may be reduced to 2.5 mg twice daily by your healthcare provider.
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At what dose is Eliquis typically prescribed?
Eliquis treatment is typically initiated at a dosage of 5 mg twice a day. It can be taken with or without food, and the tablets should not be chewed or crushed. For patients who are 80 years old or older, weigh less than 60 kg, or have serum creatinine levels greater than 1.5 mg/dL, the recommended dose is reduced to 2.5 mg twice daily. If you miss a dose of Eliquis, it should be taken as soon as possible on the same day and then go back to your regular schedule - never double up on doses in order to compensate for a missed one. The effectiveness of Eliquis may decrease if there's inconsistent use over time so adherence to dosing schedules is critical for therapeutic effect.
What are the most common side effects for Natural Blood Thinners?
Some of the potential side effects of natural blood thinners can include:
- Potential for increased bleeding, especially if taken in high doses or combined with other blood-thinning medications
- Allergic reactions, particularly if you have an allergy to the specific herb or spice
- Interactions with other medications, leading to increased effectiveness or toxicity
- Digestive issues such as upset stomach, gas, and diarrhea
On the other hand, Eliquis (apixaban) has its own set of possible side effects. These can include:
- Easy bruising and minor bleeding (such as a nosebleed)
- Serious bleeding (especially from the stomach or intestines), signs might be bloody/black/tarry stools or coughing up blood
- Pink/brown urine due to kidney problems in rare cases
- Yellowing eyes/skin which may indicate liver disease It's important not only consider these factors but also discuss them thoroughly with your healthcare provider before deciding on a course of anticoagulation therapy.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Natural Blood Thinners?
Natural blood thinners, like garlic, ginger, and turmeric among others, are generally considered safe for most people. However, in some cases they can cause side effects such as:
- Risk of bleeding: Some natural blood thinners may increase the risk of excessive bleeding or bruising if you're injured.
- Allergic reactions: In rare instances, allergic reactions to these substances could occur. Symptoms might include hives, difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling in your face or throat.
- Disturbances in digestion: These can include heartburn and upset stomach which often result from consuming large amounts of these spices.
- Interactions with other medications: If you're taking other medications (including Eliquis), combining them with natural blood thinners could have dangerous interactions.
On the other hand, Eliquis is a powerful anticoagulant that helps prevent harmful clots that may lead to stroke. Potential side effects may be severe and require immediate medical attention:
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Persistent headache
- Dizziness/fainting
- Blood in urine/stools
- Extreme fatigue/weakness
If you experience any of these symptoms while on either treatment option it's essential to seek immediate medical assistance. Always discuss any medicinal changes with your healthcare provider before making adjustments to ensure safety and efficacy.
What are the most common side effects for Eliquis?
Eliquis, a prescription blood thinner, comes with its own set of potential side effects that may occur:
- Possible bruising or minor bleeding (such as nosebleeds)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache or dizziness
- Mild skin rash
- Potential allergic reactions such as itching, swelling of the face/tongue/throat, severe dizziness, difficulty breathing.
Remember to always consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms while taking Eliquis. The medication is designed to prevent harmful clots from forming in the blood vessels but must be taken with caution due to possible side effects.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Eliquis?
While Eliquis is generally well-tolerated, it's important to be aware of potential serious side effects that may occur. These include:
- Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling in your face or throat.
- Unusual bruising or bleeding (nosebleeds, bleeding gums), and blood in your urine or stools.
- Severe headache, dizziness, weakness on one side of the body - these could indicate a possible stroke.
- Pink or brown urine; red or black, tarry stools; coughing up blood; vomiting that looks like coffee grounds – these are signs of severe internal bleeding.
- Feeling light-headedness like you might pass out (a sign of low blood pressure).
If any such symptoms arise while using Eliquis call emergency medical help immediately. It's crucial to remember that while natural alternatives exist for thinning the blood, they do not provide the same level of protection against strokes and systemic embolism in individuals with atrial fibrillation as does a prescription medication like Eliquis. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making changes to prescribed medications regimen.
Contraindications for Natural Blood Thinners and Eliquis?
While natural blood thinners and Eliquis, like most anticoagulants, can help prevent the formation of dangerous clots, they also come with certain risks. If you notice unusual bleeding or bruising, prolonged periods of bleeding after a cut or injury, coughing up blood or vomiting that looks like coffee grounds, please seek immediate medical attention.
Eliquis should not be taken if you are already consuming natural substances known for their blood-thinning properties such as garlic, ginger or omega-3 fatty acids without consulting your physician first; these substances may enhance the effect of Eliquis leading to excessive bleeding. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking; discontinuation of natural blood thinners might be required before starting on Eliquis to avoid possible drug interactions.
How much do Natural Blood Thinners and Eliquis cost?
For the brand name versions of these blood thinners:
- The price for a one-month supply of Eliquis (5 mg), which is 60 tablets, averages around $470 to $510 in the United States. This works out to about $15–17/day.
- Natural blood thinners like fish oil and turmeric vary greatly in cost depending on the brand and dosage. For example, a bottle with 120 capsules of high-quality fish oil might be priced at around $20–30, which equates to roughly $0.33-$0.50 per day if you take two daily as recommended by many manufacturers.
Thus, while natural alternatives are generally less expensive than branded medications like Eliquis on a per-day basis, please remember that cost should not be your primary consideration when choosing between them. It's also important to consider their effectiveness and potential side effects.
The generic version of Eliquis (apixaban) may offer significant savings but isn't currently available in the U.S.. In other countries where it is available, prices can range from approximately $1–$10 per tablet depending on location and manufacturer.
Natural supplements do not have generic or branded versions because they're typically sold over-the-counter: their costs will depend primarily on their quality and where they're purchased from.
Popularity of Natural Blood Thinners and Eliquis
Apixaban, in generic form as well as under the brand name Eliquis, was estimated to have been prescribed to about 10.9 million people in the US in 2020. Apixaban accounted for just over 20% of anticoagulant prescriptions in the US. It is a new-generation anticoagulant that has been increasing in prevalence since its approval by FDA.
Natural blood thinners such as foods rich in vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids are used by millions worldwide, though exact figures are difficult to estimate due to their widespread availability without prescription. These natural substances may help prevent blood clot formation but they do not have an immediate or predictable effect like apixaban does, nor can they be reliably dosed or monitored via lab tests. Their use should be discussed with healthcare professionals before implementing them into a diet specifically for their potential blood-thinning properties because of possible interactions with other medications and conditions.
Conclusion
Natural blood thinners such as garlic, ginger, and omega-3 fatty acids have a long history of use in traditional medicine for cardiovascular health. Eliquis (apixaban), on the other hand, is a newer anticoagulant that has been shown in numerous clinical studies to be effective at preventing strokes and blood clots in people with atrial fibrillation. Both natural blood thinners and Eliquis can help prevent clot formation, but their mechanisms are different.
Eliquis works by directly inhibiting Factor Xa, an enzyme involved in blood clotting. Natural remedies may work through various mechanisms including reducing platelet aggregation or affecting other parts of the coagulation cascade.
While Eliquis is a prescription medication regulated by the FDA ensuring consistent potency across all tablets, the effectiveness of natural substances might vary based on factors such as growing conditions or manufacturing processes. Also note that while some patients prefer natural alternatives due to perceived fewer side effects or cost savings, it's important to understand that these compounds can still interact with other medications and may not be appropriate for everyone.
Both options should be used under medical supervision: Eliquis requires regular monitoring and dose adjustment based on kidney function whereas usage of high amounts of natural anticoagulants also needs monitoring because they can increase bleeding risk when consumed excessively or combined with certain drugs like aspirin.
The safety profile between both groups differs significantly; while minor side effects are common with natural supplements (e.g., fishy aftertaste from fish oil), Eliquis carries more serious risks such as significant bleeding complications which require immediate medical attention. Therefore before deciding treatment pathway involving either option one must consult healthcare provider considering individual patient's overall health status.