Blood Thinners and Alcohol
Antiplatelets keep platelets from sticking to each other and to the walls of blood vessels, forming clots. They’re often prescribed to people at risk for future blood clots, rather than to treat existing ones. The formation of a blood clot in the body is a complex process that involves multiple substances called clotting factors. Warfarin decreases the body’s ability to form blood clots by blocking the formation of vitamin K–dependent clotting factors. Vitamin K is needed to make clotting factors and prevent bleeding. By giving a medication that blocks the clotting factors, your body can stop harmful clots from forming and prevent clots from getting larger.
It’s possible for Eliquis to cause kidney-related side effects. But kidney-related side effects were not commonly reported in studies of the drug. No, older people https://ecosoberhouse.com/ do not seem to have a higher risk of side effects from Eliquis than younger people. Eliquis may cause mild side effects other than the ones listed above.
Can alcohol cause blood clots?
Only trained and licensed medical professionals can provide such services. If you or anyone you know is undergoing a severe health crisis, call a doctor or 911 immediately. If that damage continues, scar tissue can build up in the liver, leading to the third stage, cirrhosis.
- Instead, they work by managing blood coagulation, a natural body process that prevents excessive bleeding when you get injured.
- Although ethanol reduces clotting, it should not be used as a substitute for anticoagulants.
- It’s also important to protect yourself when using knives, scissors, or yard equipment.
- If you do need to suddenly stop taking Eliquis, your doctor may suggest a different medication for your condition.
When little blood vessels get injured from everyday activities, you may also notice small bruises appear on your skin. This isn’t usually a major concern unless they’re extensive or the discoloration seems extreme. Calls to our general hotline may be answered by private treatment providers.
Should You Drink Alcohol While Taking Blood Thinners?
If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your physician or dial 911. Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical blood thinners and alcohol advice, diagnosis or treatment. Data sources include Micromedex (updated 3 Mar 2024), Cerner Multum™ (updated 4 Mar 2024), ASHP (updated 10 Mar 2024) and others. Although alcohol thins the blood, long-term use can have a different effect. When a person drinks excessively for long periods, their risk for a stroke increases.
- Staying within your INR range can prevent you from bleeding excessively or clotting too easily.
- Other factors may also affect whether Eliquis is a good treatment option for you.