Does Eliquis Cause Weight Loss? Discover the Truth Here!

Are you taking Eliquis and noticing a change in your weight? Weight loss is a common side effect of many medications, but does Eliquis cause weight loss?

In this article, we will explore the potential connection between Eliquis and weight loss. We will examine what Eliquis is, how it works, and review studies that have investigated any relationship between Eliquis and weight loss.

“It’s important to understand the effects that medications can have on our bodies, including changes in weight. Whether you are concerned about possible weight loss from taking Eliquis or just curious about the topic, let’s dive in and discover the truth.”

We will also cover other factors that may contribute to weight loss, such as changes in diet and exercise habits. By the end of this article, you should have a better understanding of whether Eliquis is responsible for any weight loss you may be experiencing.

If you are currently taking Eliquis or considering starting the medication, it’s essential to talk with your doctor before making any changes to your treatment regimen based on information you read here or anywhere else online.

So, let’s get started and find out if Eliquis could be causing any unintentional weight loss and what you can do about it!

Understanding Eliquis and Its Purpose

What is Eliquis?

Eliquis is the brand name for the generic drug apixaban, which belongs to a class of medications known as anticoagulants or blood thinners. It’s an oral medication that helps prevent blood clots from forming by inhibiting certain proteins in the blood.

How Does Eliquis Work?

Eliquis works by blocking the activity of Factor Xa, a protein involved in the clotting process. It prevents the formation of blood clots that can block blood flow, leading to serious health problems such as stroke or pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs).

“Eliquis acts at a critical point in the blood clotting cascade by specifically targeting Factor Xa, an important enzyme responsible for thrombin generation, thus effectively reducing the risk of arterial and venous thromboembolic events.” -Drugs.com

What Conditions Does Eliquis Treat?

Eliquis is primarily used to treat and prevent blood clots in patients with atrial fibrillation, a heart condition characterized by irregular heartbeat. The medication also helps reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients who have recently undergone hip or knee surgery or those who are at high risk of developing these conditions due to other medical reasons.

How Should Eliquis Be Taken?

Eliquis should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. The recommended dosage may vary depending on the indication and individual patient factors. Usually, Eliquis is taken orally twice a day with or without food. It’s essential to take the medication regularly and at the same time every day to ensure its effectiveness.

Some patients may wonder if Eliquis causes weight loss. While it’s true that weight changes can occur as a side effect of the drug, both weight gain and weight loss are rare and affect less than 1% of patients using Eliquis.

If you miss a dose of Eliquis, take it as soon as you remember on the same day. If you forget to take it until the next day, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take extra medication to make up for the missed dose unless instructed by your doctor.

“Patients must comply with closely following their dosage instructions since non-compliance increases their risk of forming blood clots, which can lead to life-altering or fatal outcomes.” -Harvard Health Publishing

Common Side Effects of Eliquis

Bleeding

Eliquis, is an anticoagulant used to prevent blood clots. Because it reduces blood clotting, one of the most common side effects of Eliquis is bleeding.

This drug can increase your risk of internal and external bleeding that could lead to serious issues such as hemorrhage or stroke. Some signs of bleeding associated with this medication include:

• Bruising more easily than normal
• Nosebleeds that do not stop quickly
• Unexpected vaginal bleeding or authorisation for male patients
• Coughing up blood or blood in urine
• Gums that bleed without explanation

If you notice any of these symptoms while taking Eliquis, contact your doctor right away. They will advise you on whether the dosage should be reduced or discontinued altogether.

Nausea and Vomiting

Another potential side effect of Eliquis use is nausea and vomiting. This symptom often occurs when someone first starts taking the medication, but it may persist even after several weeks of treatment.

If you experience nausea and/or vomiting while using Eliquis, inform your healthcare provider. In some cases, they may adjust your dose, suggest taking the medicine with food, or prescribe anti-nausea medications.

In rare cases, individuals who are allergic to Eliquis components may develop severe digestive symptoms. These can include diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, and indigestion. Also, a number of late-onset adverse events have been diagnosed among users or former physicians; always consult with your medical care practitioner if unusual or unpredictable side effects occur.

Does Eliquis Cause Weight Loss?

There is no indication that Eliquis causes weight loss directly. However, some reports suggest that people may lose weight due to changes in eating habits or underlying health conditions.

Eliquis should not be used as a method for any form of intentional weight reduction. In addition, sudden, unexplained weight loss can be caused by an illness and requires prompt attention from a healthcare professional.

“Unintended weight loss is commonly defined as a weight loss of at least 5 percent of the body weight over a period of 6 to 12 months without intending to do so.” – National Library of Medicine

If you are taking Eliquis and have noticed significant weight loss, make sure to talk to your doctor about this side effect and further investigate the root cause of the issue.

The Bottom Line

Eliquis is a reliable treatment option prescribed to people susceptible to blood clots; however, it does come with potential risks. Avoiding medication misuse and consulting a medical practitioner if unpredicted symptoms occur are simple yet impactful measures one can take when using anticoagulants like Eliquis.

If you experience bleeding, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, confusion, sweating, abnormal heart rhythms, or chest pains while taking Eliquis, seek immediate medical attention.

Is Weight Loss a Side Effect of Eliquis?

Eliquis, also known by its generic name apixaban, is a prescription blood thinner medication used to prevent blood clots in individuals with certain medical conditions. While weight gain is listed as a common side effect of this medication, there has been some speculation regarding whether or not it can cause unintended weight loss.

Studies on Eliquis and Weight Loss

There have not been any significant studies conducted solely on the relationship between Eliquis and weight loss. However, in one study comparing the effectiveness of Eliquis to that of aspirin for preventing serious blood clotting events in individuals who had undergone hip replacement surgery, those taking Eliquis lost an average of 1 kilogram (approximately 2 pounds) while those taking aspirin saw no change in weight.

Another study published in the Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis evaluated the impact of anticoagulants, including Eliquis, on body composition in older adults. The results showed that these medications did not significantly influence body mass, but rather may help to maintain muscle mass. Muscle mass naturally decreases as we age, so preserving it can be beneficial to overall health.

What Causes Weight Loss on Eliquis?

The mechanism behind any potential weight loss caused by Eliquis is not fully understood. One theory suggests that the decrease in weight could be associated with the decrease in inflammation that occurs when blood flow improves due to the medication’s anti-clotting effects.

It should be noted, however, that many factors can contribute to unintended weight loss, such as changes in diet or exercise habits, underlying medical conditions, and stress levels. Before assuming that Eliquis is responsible for weight loss, it is important to rule out other possible causes and to consult with a healthcare provider.

How Common is Weight Loss on Eliquis?

While there have been reports of some individuals experiencing weight loss while taking Eliquis, it is not considered to be a common side effect of the medication. In fact, in clinical studies evaluating the efficacy and safety of Eliquis, weight gain, particularly in the abdominal area, was more commonly reported than weight loss.

• In one study, up to 1% of participants experienced weight loss as a side effect of Eliquis.
• In another study comparing Eliquis to warfarin for preventing stroke or systemic embolism in individuals with atrial fibrillation, only 0.9% of those taking Eliquis experienced unintended weight loss compared to 1.2% of those taking warfarin.
• Anecdotal evidence suggests that some individuals may experience weight loss early on in their treatment with Eliquis but eventually return to their normal weight.

“Losing weight while taking anticoagulant medications like Eliquis is unlikely, though it has been reported infrequently. Individuals who experience any changes in weight while taking this medication should speak with their healthcare provider to rule out other underlying causes.” -Dr. Rachel Nall, RN, BSN, CCRN

Eliquis is not typically associated with unintended weight loss as a common side effect. While some reports suggest that a small percentage of individuals may experience weight loss while taking the medication, it is important to consider other potential factors such as diet, exercise habits, and underlying medical conditions before attributing it solely to Eliquis use. Anyone experiencing unexpected weight loss or other concerning symptoms while taking Eliquis should consult with their healthcare provider without delay.

Factors That May Affect Weight While Taking Eliquis

Eliquis, also known as Apixaban, is a medication used to treat and prevent blood clots. Blood clots can be the result of underlying medical conditions or surgeries. As with any medication, there may be some side effects experienced by users. One question that often comes up from individuals taking Eliquis is whether it causes weight loss or gain.

Diet and Exercise Habits

Diet and exercise habits play an important role in determining one’s weight while taking Eliquis. It’s important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Medical experts indicate that changes in diet and activities have significant impacts on one’s body when starting new medications, including Eliquis.

If you’re eating less food than normal or engaging in more physical activity, your body will usually lose weight over time regardless of the medication being taken. Also, maintaining good dietary habits ensures that you don’t experience any malnourishment, which could trigger potential weight fluctuations.

Medical Conditions

In some cases, medical conditions could be responsible for weight gain or loss when using Eliquis. For example, kidney disease patients commonly take anticoagulants such as Eliquis to reduce their risk of blood clots or stroke. Such patients often struggle with edema (swelling), which affects their weight and looks like unexplained weight gain. Hence, patient demographics matter regarding how much they are susceptible to this condition during the treatment. It’s best to seek advice from a registered healthcare professional should you suspect symptoms related to extreme weight shifts after/during the medication use.

Medications

While Eliquis is not known to cause any specific amount of weight change, other medications prescribed along with the drug may cause weight gain. As an example, Corticosteroids are commonly prescribed to treat asthma, arthritis and other chronic illnesses but have side effects such as weight increase.

Alternatively, some drugs may affect metabolism rates that slow down the body’s natural ability to burn fat which could also lead to rapid weight gain. It is therefore imperative that you consult with your healthcare provider to maintain a healthy medication regimen without causing any complications.

Age and Gender

Age and gender may play a role in how users respond to Eliquis treatment plan alongside their diet and exercise habits. According to studies, men tend to lose more weight than women when using anticoagulants like Eliquis. However, results vary with age group; usually, older age groups (65+) tend to see less of weight loss/gain while younger people experience fluctuating weights after starting this or similar medications.

For most people, taking Eliquis will not make them experience sudden changes in their weight unless they already have underlying health conditions or drug interactions resulting from their medication regimen. Additionally, maintaining good nutrition and physical activity has proven helpful for patients in managing and mitigating unwanted side-effects while on regular Eliquis dosage – including controlling proper weight levels.

“The main factors affecting weight fluctuations around Apixaban are medication compliance, genetic makeup, pre-existing medical conditions, general lifestyle, onset attitude towards changing one’s eating & workout habits.” -Dr. John Alexander MD, MPH Professor of Medicine at Duke University Medical Center

Does Eliquis Cause Weight Loss? In general, the medication outcome does not indicate any significant changes if monitored correctly concerning living a healthy standard life compared to previous daily activities before introducing any new medicine. Eliquis remains a prescribed blood-thinning agent intended to aid avoid serious medical problems like stroke, deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, making it an essential tool for your condition’s proper management.

Tips for Managing Weight While on Eliquis

Many people wonder if taking Eliquis can cause weight loss or gain. The truth is, the medication itself does not directly cause either of these outcomes. However, there are certain factors that come into play when managing your weight while taking it.

Eat a Balanced Diet

One key component to maintaining a healthy weight while taking Eliquis is to eat a balanced diet. This means consuming foods from all food groups in moderation and ensuring that you are getting enough protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.

Avoiding processed and refined foods can also be beneficial in managing weight, as they tend to be high in calories but low in nutrients. Instead, opt for whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

“Eating a variety of nutrient-dense, unprocessed foods and being mindful about portion sizes can help with weight management.” -Sarah Schlichter, MPH, RDN

In addition, keeping track of your calorie intake and staying within a healthy range for your age, sex, and activity level can aid in preventing unwanted weight gain.

Stay Active

Maintaining an active lifestyle is another crucial aspect of managing weight while taking Eliquis. Exercise has numerous benefits including improving heart health, reducing stress, and promoting weight loss.

Engaging in regular physical activity such as walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling can help burn extra calories and build muscle mass. Resistance training exercises like lifting weights can also boost metabolism and increase fat burning potential.

“Regular exercise is essential in maintaining a healthy weight and should be recommended to everyone, regardless of medication use.” -Matthew Christopher, MD

Even small bouts of movement throughout the day can add up and make a difference in weight management. Taking the stairs instead of the elevator, parking farther away from your destination, or doing household chores can all be beneficial for staying active.

Avoid Alcohol and Smoking

Alcohol consumption and smoking are two habits that can contribute to unwanted weight gain while taking Eliquis. These substances have numerous negative effects on overall health and can lead to increased calorie intake and decreased physical activity levels.

Alcoholic beverages tend to be high in calories and can cause dehydration, which can slow down metabolism and lead to food cravings. Smoking has been linked to increased appetite and the body’s ability to burn fat efficiently.

“Avoiding alcohol and quitting smoking are two lifestyle factors that can improve both weight management and overall health.” -American Heart Association

If you currently smoke or drink alcohol regularly, consider seeking support through counseling or group therapy to help overcome these habits and maintain a healthy weight.

While taking Eliquis does not directly cause weight loss or gain, there are various tips and strategies that can aid in managing weight effectively. Eating a balanced diet, staying active, and avoiding alcohol and smoking can all be beneficial for maintaining a healthy weight and promoting overall wellness.

When to Talk to Your Doctor About Weight Changes on Eliquis

Eliquis (apixaban) is a prescription blood thinner used to prevent strokes, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. While weight changes are not listed as a common side effect of Eliquis, some people may experience weight loss or gain while taking the medication. If you are on Eliquis and notice significant weight changes, it’s important to discuss this with your doctor.

Significant Weight Loss or Gain

If you experience significant weight loss while taking Eliquis, this could be a sign of an underlying condition that requires medical attention. Rapid weight loss can also increase the risk of bleeding in individuals taking blood thinners like Eliquis. On the other hand, weight gain could indicate fluid retention related to heart or kidney problems or a change in diet or lifestyle.

According to Mayo Clinic: “Weight gain occurs when you regularly eat more calories than you use through normal bodily functions and physical activity. But the medication you take, including drug combinations, may make unexpected changes to your body weight. For example, sometimes medications cause side effects, such as nausea or diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and unintentional weight loss.”

Changes in Appetite or Energy Levels

In addition to weight changes, both a decrease or increase in appetite, as well as fluctuations in energy levels, could be potential side effects of taking Eliquis. Again, if these symptoms are persistent or severe, you should consult with your healthcare provider.

As stated by Healthline: “Some people might experience fatigue after starting apixaban therapy. This symptom usually goes away within a few weeks as the body adjusts to the medication.”

New or Worsening Symptoms

It’s important to note that weight changes, appetite and energy level fluctuations are not the only symptoms you should be aware of if you take Eliquis. Any new or worsening symptoms, including but not limited to: headache, swelling in your arms or legs, difficulty breathing, chest pain, dizziness, or seizures, could indicate serious side effects and require immediate attention from a medical professional.

The National Blood Clot Alliance (NBCA) recommends: “Any unusual symptom such as fatigue, tiredness, shortness of breath even at rest, arm or leg swelling, or redness or swelling, warmth, or discomfort in the skin on an arm or leg may be warning signs of a blood clot or DVT.”

Concerns About Eliquis Side Effects

If you have any concerns or questions regarding the side effects of Eliquis, it is always best to consult with your doctor. They can assess your specific situation and make recommendations based on your individual needs and goals for treatment.

As stated by Drugs.com: “In rare cases, Eliquis has caused major bleeding, which is sometimes life-threatening. Get emergency medical help right away if you experience any unusual bleeding or bruising while taking this medication.”

Although weight changes are not a known common side effect of Eliquis, it’s important to stay vigilant and aware of any changes in your body. If you do experience significant weight loss or gain, changes in appetite or energy levels, new or worsening symptoms, or any other concerning side effects, don’t hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider. Together, you can determine the best course of action to ensure your continued health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions