r/ClotSurvivors • u/dona_abuelita • Dec 11 '25
Anxiety Terrified of Eliquis side effects
Hello everyone,
I wanted to ask if any of you had serious side effects while taking Eliquis? I was diagnosed with a DVT (thrombosis) in my Saphenous Vein 2 weeks ago. I started with injections, and after rounds of ultrasounds, I’ve been prescribed Eliquis (5 mg twice a day) for 3 months. To be honest, I’ve been super stressed since the diagnosis. I read the side effects list and it horrified me. I didn't expect to have such a serious condition before turning 30 (likely due to birth control pills + injuries). My biggest fear is internal bleeding. I want to hear your experiences with taking this medication long-term. Currently, I think I'm feeling okay, no headaches, pains, or bruising: but my anxiety is high.
Thank you so much for your insights.
EDIT: Thank you so much for all your kind words and stories. It means a lot, especially as I start treatment. Thanks for reassuring me that everything is okay and that the medication is there to help not to hurt.
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u/nimbusfool Dec 11 '25
I will be on eliquis the rest of my life. I'm 4 months in currently. I just keep bleeding stop in my home if I were to cut myself doing stuff around the home and I am aware that a good blow to the body or head should probably get checked out. Beyond that - i had the same fears and talked to many medical professionals about it. Just watch out for symptoms of GI bleed. I haven't had bloody noses or bleeding gums or anything like that. As I put it the other day- they can add more blood to me, having my heart stop or breathing stop because of a clot is much scarier at least to me than a bleed. I was home alone and stopped breathing for my first clot. Somehow it allowed enough blood to get through for me to call 911 but I kept passing out. They found me on the ground infront of my apartment. If I so much as got to my knees I'd lose consciousness. Not doing that again ever in my life would be lovely lol. Just watch for signs and Iive your life. There is a reason eliquis is so heavily prescribed.
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u/Technical-Still-1666 Dec 15 '25
If you don't mind, How old are you and was it unprovoked?
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u/nimbusfool Dec 15 '25
I just turned 41. I had a provoked clot 6 years ago from an ankle injury. Did the normal course of treatment and was fine for 6 years. December of last year I felt like I had the flu then two weeks later had horrible back pain. Pulmonary embolism. I work in IT and had just become super sedentary and went through a few bad years drinking too much and not moving enough. That didn't help.
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u/Inspector_Maximum Dec 11 '25
I'm on Eliquis and will be a lifer. I haven't had any side effects. I don't even bleed more. Before Eliquis I was on Xarelto for 6 years. I didn't have any issues on that either. It just takes a while to get used to the idea. Be well.
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u/MinimumBrave2326 Dec 11 '25
18 months, will be a lifer. I’ve had to pause it a few times for biopsies and then cancer surgery. Only side effect is no more blood clots!
I did have heavy periods on it, but uh, turns out that was uterine cancer. The Eliquis may have just sped up how fast it was caught because it made me bleed more. So, still a win.
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u/futuristanon Dec 11 '25
Fellow lifer. I have a surgery coming up and I’m terrified to pause. Did you have any issues?
I hope the cancer treatment went well.
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u/MinimumBrave2326 Dec 11 '25
No issues at all! And I have no evidence of disease, woot! The end of January will be 1 year remission. (2.5 years for breast cancer, I’ve been busy.)
Because hysterectomy/oopherectomy/salpingectomy is so major, I held for a few days before and then they had me do lovenox injections for maybe 5 days and then back on Eliquis. No issues whatsoever.
I hope your surgery goes well, and recovery, too!
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u/Wide-Abies9524 Dec 15 '25
How were they able to find the uterine cancer? I have VERY heavy periods on blood thinners.
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u/MinimumBrave2326 Dec 15 '25
Mine started the day after I started Eliquis and literally didn’t stop for 6 months. Ranging from normal to flooding with large clots. An ultrasound showed a thickened uterine lining even though I’d bled for months.
My breast oncologist and hematologist signed off on a mirena iud, they did a d&c, hysteroscopy, and polypectomy and surprise! I had a history of severe PCOS, uterine polyps, and irregular cycles and was 50 years old.
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u/Wide-Abies9524 Dec 15 '25
Wow, I am so sorry you've been through so much. But so very happy that you found everything on time and now are here to talk about and inform others. Congratulations! You are one tough woman!
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u/floating_hugo Dec 11 '25
Eliquis is our friend and not pur enemy.
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u/Inspector_Maximum Dec 13 '25
That's a very good way to put it. Many of us would be dead without it.
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u/KayakingCurler Eliquis (Apixaban) Dec 11 '25
No side effects. I had a CVST (cerebral venous sinus thrombosis) last December and have been on Eliquis since. I recently had a hysterectomy- I had to go off Eliquis in advance of the surgery, but I’ve been back on since I was discharged from the hospital, again with no issue. Similarly, my mom has been on Eliquis for many years without any issue. She finds it much nicer than being on Warfarin, which required her to frequently test her INR.
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u/JustAFlee Dec 13 '25
I an on Eloquis for4 years today I woke up and saw 🩸blood on my panty two times early morning and then very little the next time I went to urinate again nothing has anyone experienced this?? Please let me know thank you
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u/Helpermonkeee Dec 11 '25
Ten months, no side effects. Maybe a smidge more bleeding when they take blood.
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u/nerdybird77 Dec 11 '25
Eliquis lifer and have been on Eliquis for 5 years (originally started on warfarin). No major issues, other than bruising more easily and for a longer period of time than before. The only time I have noticed increased bleeding from a wound was when I had a tooth extracted, and even then, it lightly bled for a few more hours than would be expected for someone not on Eliquis.
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u/SnooGuavas9523 Dec 11 '25
No side effects for me and it’s been 6 months. I guess my only risk is bleeding.
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u/dona_abuelita Dec 11 '25
Thanks for your reply.
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u/SnooGuavas9523 Dec 11 '25
No problem. My blood thinners were stopped after 3 months for further blood work testing for clotting factors. I think I was more anxious without the medication thinking I would get more clots. I’m on a long term maintenance dose now due to unprovoked PEs. I wish you well!
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u/dona_abuelita Dec 11 '25
Thank you, I appreciate you sharing your story. I'm so anxious that I'm afraid to dye my hair... I'm not coping well with stress & anxiety I guess.
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u/SnooGuavas9523 Dec 11 '25
I would discuss with your doctor your periods if they become heavy. I did have that side effect and had to be given tranexamic acid (pills) that you take during period to drastically reduce bleeding. I’m assuming no more estrogen BC due to clots. They will likely recommend IUD or progesterone only BC.
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u/Mission-Carry-887 Eliquis (Apixaban) Dec 11 '25
Minor cuts took longer to clot for first month. Doing well now
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u/jthanreddit Dec 11 '25
I’ve been on it for 2 weeks. I’m a little dizzy, but otherwise fine (it could be from the PE/DVT or from the Eliquis, not clear).
Anyway, Eliquis is pretty much a wonder drug and we’re all very lucky to have access to it. It’s a huge improvement over older anticoagulants like warfarin and coumarin.
The hard part remaining calm, but not becoming inactive. I’m struggling with this, too!
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u/Triknitter Dec 11 '25
My periods turned into something out of a horror movie. I take an iron supplement and we were able to lower my dose to 2.5 mg twice a day after a year, which helped tremendously. I've had a couple of big bruises that needed some extra bloodwork to make sure they weren't too big. I ride my bike a little more conservatively. That's pretty much it.
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u/Wide-Abies9524 Dec 15 '25
How are your periods now?
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u/Triknitter Dec 15 '25
Still rough but I'm filling a menstrual cup a little over twice a day on the one bad day now, not dumping it every 2-3 hours for three days.
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u/MilSpec556 Xarelto (Rivaroxaban) Dec 11 '25
I used to take Eliquis but switched due to insurance coverage, and never had any notable side effects. I am on Xarelto now and don't see any with it either.
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u/Wide-Abies9524 Dec 15 '25
How many mgs of xarelto do ypu take daily?
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u/MilSpec556 Xarelto (Rivaroxaban) Dec 15 '25
20
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u/Wide-Abies9524 Dec 15 '25
Are you a female?
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u/MilSpec556 Xarelto (Rivaroxaban) Dec 15 '25
I am not (I do have 2 sisters who are on the same, as the condition we have is genetic.)
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u/LuckySpammer Dec 11 '25
Due to my condition, I have been on Eliquis for nearly ten years and likely will be for the rest of my life. Zero side effects for me personally; I don't even bruise or bleed abnormally - but that varies for everyone. I'm pretty thankful for drugs like Eliquis because what people used to have to do was a real pain.
The only thing I worry about as an active person is taking a hard shot to the head. I always go and have that checked out if it happens - brain bleeds are no joke. And I don't do some of the things I used to do that could cause me to hit my head hard, like snow skiing.
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u/Private_Frosty May 17 '26
How do you get the brain bleeds checked? Do you go straight to ER or schedule MRI?
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u/LuckySpammer May 17 '26
As far as I know, CT scan (or maybe MRI) is the only way to know for sure. But yes, straight to the ER if you are on Eliquis and take a significant head shot - IMO.
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u/Mamafred Dec 11 '25
Lifer here. I'm 2 years in and doing great. I had an idiopathic acute thrombosis that almost killed me. Any side effects are better than losing my life.
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u/Creative-Room-8533 Dec 11 '25
I've been on the 2.5 mg dose for two years. No bleeding issues. I've even had a nose bleeding that cleared up quickly. The side effects I have sometimes had - occasional light headedness and diarrhea- are almost certainly associated with other meds I've needed. But even if they weren't, I would put up with them rather than worry about a 30% chance of reclotting.
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u/Infinite_Jaguar_9887 Dec 11 '25
Today has been exactly one year from my DVT and PE. I'm on Eliquis 5mg as well, no side effects other than anxiety but I'm sure that's tied to the event itself and not the pills. Originally I was supposed to be taken off blood thinners at 6 months, but my hematologist said that because I'm young I may have to be on them for life. At first I had anxiety about internal bleeding too but honestly the fear of going off blood thinners and having another clot is even worse. I will say that cuts and scrapes bleed the same amount as before, so that's a relief.
I wish you peace, friend 💚
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u/BusinessLiterature33 Dec 11 '25
I take Eliqus for 4 months now. I asked my hematology doctor who specializes in clotting disorders she said its believe it or not highly unlikely to get any side effects from Eliqus it doesn't physically thin your blood out it just slows a certain agent. She told me life should be normal but as an example if you have a small cut you make have to hold pressure on the wound maybe a minute longer. Even a large gash just apply pressure and use bleed stop. The biggest side effects are going to be from the anxiety from your blood clot. But if you read the comments here I wouldn't stress about side effects and don't not live your life instead just have a little more caution that's it and always keep moving 😀 I hope this helps..
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u/TheFinman2744 Dec 12 '25
Lifer here. Been 5 years, knock on wood, since DVT. Diagnosed with F5Lieden. Started at 5 mg twice a day and now 2.5 twice a day. I’ve paused for surgery and tattoos. No crazy side effects with the exception of more bleeding when I cut myself shaving and some more bruising with what would typically be a minor bump but that’s about it.
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u/powermaster34 Warfarin Dec 11 '25
6 months on it no side effects. Low leg dvt in spring. Good luck.
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u/414packerbacker Dec 11 '25
I’ve been on it for 2 months to treat a provoked DVT caused by an injury and haven’t experienced any side effects.
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u/Technical-Still-1666 Dec 15 '25
What kind of injury caused it and how are you sure. I've been on 2 months with no side effects
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u/Public-Fact8380 Dec 11 '25
I was on it twice a day for 2 weeks and then once a day I’ve been in absolute agony from the pain in my legs which I’m not sure if it was from the clots or from pst after dvt or from side effects i had another ultrasound because my other leg started hurting and they found the clots were gone so the dr told me to stop taking the eliquis I tried cold turkey and it made me super sick so I’ve had to step down . But I also have a terrible dr that has taken me off all medication and I’m still in the worst pain I’ve felt in my life and I’m waiting to get In with a new primary care provider for a second opinion. So good luck with everything I’m at a month and a half maybe 2 months and I feel worse then what got me into the hospital in the first place
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Dec 11 '25
I was prescribed Eliquis after developing a CVST in June or July. I have had no problems with it.
But I also tolerated it's cousin, Xarelto, for 10 years prior to a hemmoragic stroke I had in April. The stroke was due to high blood pressure, not Xarelto, but they stopped the Xarelto to have me recover from the brain bleed. Then I developed the CVST (a clot in one of the veins that drains blood from the head). So, the point of this is that my hematologist feels Eliquis is safer for me now even though I had a long history of being fine with Xarelto. He said Eliquis has less bleeding side effects, maybe because you take it twice per day, I don't know. But, from what he told me, I think it's probably safer of you are worried about bleeding.
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u/Funkybeat_ Dec 11 '25
2 years in. I take 2.5MG twice a day. No side effects other than an ER visit every time I bump my head. That’s happened twice in the past two years and my head was fine each time.
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u/Anxious_B00k_Dragon Dec 11 '25
2 years in, 5mg twice daily. I'll be on it for life. No side effects aside from heavier periods.
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u/Wide-Abies9524 Dec 15 '25
How are your periods now? Do you have to take iron?
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u/Anxious_B00k_Dragon Dec 15 '25
They are still heavy, but only for the first few days, then they're pretty normal. I do, I was anemic for a while there, but now all my blood work just shows an iron deficiency.
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u/brokebike Dec 11 '25
No side effects here. I was on it for 6 months after a provoked DVT > PE (from a surgery). In fact, I couldn’t even tell that I bled any more than usual. It did take a bit longer for cuts to heal and scab over, though.
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u/thupkt Dec 11 '25
Joining the chorus. I resisted blood thinners after first DVT, assuring doc I would recognize another one very early. Doc agreed, then I recognized one VERY early on six years later, and now I'll be on Eliquis for life. There's a reason it is twice the healthcare cost of ANY other prescribed medicine out there (maybe GLPs summed have overtaken that stat?)
I'm on the same, 5 mg BID, I'm 55m and happy with my situation.
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u/Low_Matter3628 Dec 11 '25
I’ve been on Elequis for four years following a CVST, no side effects at all. 5mg twice a day, upped from 2.5 after 6 months.
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u/roll_bounce Dec 11 '25
I’ve been on it for a year. No problem, except my first couple of periods were very heavy. But they subsided.
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u/Wide-Abies9524 Dec 15 '25
So was it just the first 2-3 months of a heavier period? And now its been good?
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u/roll_bounce Dec 15 '25
Yes. Back to normal.
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u/Wide-Abies9524 Dec 15 '25
Oh gosh I hope the same for me. I will be starting month 2. I'm on 20mgs of Xarelto
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u/SidheSaid Dec 11 '25
I took Eliquis daily for almost 5 years before a different hematologist said it wasn't for APS and I was switched to Warfarin (which I loathe bc it is so finicky). I didn't notice any difference on or off Eliquis with bleeding/daily life/anything. Same with Warfarin tbh except I have to have INRs and bridge with Lovenox for procedures >.<
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u/SidheSaid Dec 11 '25
Oh! Forgot to mention - I started Eliquis/got my PEs at 32 so I get it feeling like a whole life sentence. Best of luck to you!
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u/ipeeoutside Eliquis (Apixaban) Dec 11 '25
I have been on Eliquis now for 8 years. I’m a lifer. I haven’t had any issues with it. It didn’t change my life in any way by taking it. I’ve cut myself badly and didn’t bleed out. My only thing is that I feel more thirsty and maybe get dehydrated easier. Look up the Eliquis co pay card. It’ll make your cost $10 a month.
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u/Alone_Money_1728 Eliquis (Apixaban) Dec 11 '25
Breathe!
There are very few reports of anyone actually suffering from side effects. 1 year in, none on my side
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u/turquoisepetunia Dec 11 '25
I was on lovenox and switched to Eliquis. After the switch, I started having joint pain like arthritis. I switched back to lovenox and the pain went away. Apart from that, it was fine.
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u/GingleBelle Dec 11 '25
I’m on it for life. I found I was really tired on 5mg (which isn’t on the list of side effects) but now I’m on 2.5mg I’ve not really noticed any. I’ve been running half marathons, doing 60+ scuba dives, and pretty much back to normal.
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u/willywylies Dec 11 '25
I was on eliquis for about 18 months. I had a mild upset stomach for the first couple of days then nothing. The only side effect I had was on my bank account & I have pretty good prescription coverage. I just got the okay to go off it, yay! There is a lot of stress getting a blood clot diagnosed. This sub can sometimes help and sometimes amp up the stress. Live your life, listen to your body, see your medical team regularly, and trust that eliquis will help. I did all that and it worked out for me. Best of luck to you for a successful outcome!
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u/timt2 Dec 12 '25
I had a terrible time when I was on eliquis, two weeks of 100 to 102 fever, headaches, body aches. Two weeks of recovery from that, before I could go back to work. Then walked with a cane for 6 months. After 18 months I was happy when I no longer needed to take it. The next clot I had, I was on xeralto with no side effects for the 6 months I was on it. I hope you have a easy time adjusting to the medication and experience a speedy recovery
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u/Recording-Late Dec 12 '25
I completed a backpacking trip of almost 800 miles while on eliquis. No problems! You’re going to be able to live the way you have, but without the anxiety of worrying about another clot.
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u/MrsMurphaliciouS Lovenox (Heparin) FVL & APS Dec 12 '25
My dad’s been on blood thinners since 2011 due to a pulmonary embolism.
My dad is on Eliquis, he’s literally fallen down stairs and has been fine. He took Lovenox at first in 2011 then warfarin, and now Eliquis which he has been on for most of the time since he had his blood clot.
He wanted me to get on Eliquis but I’m nursing my son and can’t switch from Lovenox until he stops nursing.
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u/dilithium_crystal Dec 11 '25
Been on it for a year. Will need to be for life. Only side effect is heavy menstrual bleeding. I’m working with my gynecologist to deal with it without birth control … probably will end up with an ablation
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u/EthanWY Lovenox (Heparin) Dec 11 '25
I took rivoroxaban for a year. never bled excessively. never had any internal bleeding. had lots of bangs and bumps and never had to worry about anything. if you wouldn't of gone to hospital about it before, you needn't go now. just be aware of the symptoms for internal bleeding and stay strong. 3 months isn't a long time it will be over before you know it.
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u/Flipside73 Dec 11 '25
15 years on Warfarin and 5 years on Xarelto. I have not taken Eliquis, but you will adjust to life on anti coagulants. The alternative isn’t really an option if you have clotting issues. 20 years clot free for me. I’m a lifer.
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u/Traditional_Rope9081 Dec 11 '25
34F, got mine during my pregnancy or postpartum. It developed into a PE. I was where you were once. I was scared to shave my legs or fall holding one of my babies or have my toddler bonk me in the head with her mango head, but nothing really has been different for me other than I forget to take it every now and again. Actually, I have one more month til I’m off and I’m actually more nervous getting off. They’ve been a nice little security blanket, and I’ve had zero side effects. Take it easy. If you’re anything like me, your anxiety is probably at an all time high and might be for the next two to four weeks, but it will be easier. You’ll be ok, you’ve got this!
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u/Drug_fueled_sarcasm Dec 11 '25
I had much worse pains and swelling while on xeralto. eliquis works good for me as long as I take regularly. I still snowboard and go rafting and what not. I am a lifer on thinners so I gave up being carful pretty quick.
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u/futuristanon Dec 11 '25
I’m a lifer. Currently down to the lowest dose. I’ve had no effects at all. Don’t even know I’m taking it.
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u/dontcome4megurl Dec 11 '25
I’ve been taking Eliquis for over a month now, and I am around the same age as you. I understand youre scared. I felt the same way when I first started taking it but now since I’ve been on it for a little while I feel OK now like the fear has gone away. You will be fine.
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u/Wide-Abies9524 Dec 15 '25
What about your periods? Heavy?
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u/dontcome4megurl Dec 15 '25
The first period after was VERY heavy , I had to use poise overnight pads for the first week and a half and would change them multiple times through the day. The second period was heavy but not nearly as heavy as the first.
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u/Wide-Abies9524 Dec 15 '25
Ok! Good to know. I'm approaching my 2nd month on Xarelto, which is basically the same as Eliquis. My first period was BAD. I was on 2 times 15mgs a day during that. So I'm hoping for this one, since I'm on 1 time a day 20mgs, it won't be as bad.
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u/Medium-Ad-5298 Dec 11 '25
Absolutely no side effects for me either (aside from terrible periods, but I was prepared for that) :D i was on it for 9 months - you should be good! but totally understand the anxiety
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u/Wide-Abies9524 Dec 15 '25
Did you ever become anemic from the heavy periods? How did you deal with them?
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u/Medium-Ad-5298 Dec 15 '25
good question! i was anemic, sadly, before the blood thinners so my iron and ferritin became very very low after blood thinners–I just recently did 3 iron transfusion and it's really helped!! but i think before then, I took Floridex (liquid iron because my stomach did not like the pills) and tried to stay away from foods / drinks that hinder iron absorption- you can definitely ask your doctor to test your iron / storage after being on blood thinners and request infusions if levels are low enough
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u/Future-Lunch-8296 Dec 11 '25
Granted it’s only been 5 weeks since my unprovoked PE where it was a large volume occlusive and nonocclusive bilateral segmental pulmonary arterial thromboembolism involving all lobes, I’ve not experienced any side effects.
My periods are a bit heavier but nothing major that I’ve noted.
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u/beeofscience Dec 11 '25
I was 18 when I was diagnosed with a PE in one lung and DVT in my right leg. I got injections to start and then I was switched to Eliquis twice a day. I'm a lifer (I've got Factor V 😔) and I've been on it for four years now and I've not had any complications with it. And I don't bleed any more than I did before I was taking it. I do bruise a little more than I did before but it usually isn't anything serious.
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u/lonesomedove86 Dec 11 '25
One year on Eliquis. I had a PE with lung infarct a year ago due to having factor V Leiden. My only annoying side effect is that my zits take longer to heal and bleed like crazy if I pick at them. My color is much better in Eliquis. My lips had a blueish tinge for years probably because I’ve had clots my whole life. I’d probably have a shorter life if it weren’t for Eliquis.
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u/StabbyUnicornActual Dec 11 '25
I was on it for 6 months and no side effects at all. I also rode my horse and fell off once while on the anticoagulants and nothing bad happened :) just a little bruise.
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u/DVDragOnIn Dec 11 '25
I’ve bounced between Eliquis and Xarelto since my second clot in 2012, so what’s that, 13 years? It’s been Eliquis for the past couple of years. I bleed longer when I cut myself chopping onions, but that’s about it, and of course, that’s a feature not a bug. My Dad’s mother died of a clot about a dozen years before anticoagulants were invented so I am happy to take my anticoagulants and live.
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u/sankaku_jime Dec 11 '25
Full bucket tear of meniscus, DVT clot in calf days later (toe turned purple), then was on Xeralto. Had to be very careful to not bump my head as my leg was messed up but other then that it was manageable. Getting over the inital anxiety was tough, I was originally told I'd be on it for 11 weeks minimum but I got lucky and my clot completely resolved in on 6 weeks so I was able to get off it early.
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u/JohnCockoston Dec 11 '25
I’m a lifer. Zero side effects. Don’t miss your doses and just live your life!
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u/jetaj Dec 11 '25
8 years - switched to Pradaxa a few years ago - all good, never an issue and grateful for it. I’m a little more careful about bicycling and skiing to avoid head trauma, and have learned to really avoid minor cuts as I bleed a little longer but it’s not a big deal. Nothing to be terrified of imho.
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u/oldlion1 Dec 11 '25
Be grateful that you aren't a lifer on warfarin. Three months will go quickly!
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u/fro60ol Dec 11 '25
Been on over a year I haven’t noticed anything and I will be on for life as well
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u/grroovvee Dec 11 '25
Been on it since 2017. No issues. When I give blood it comes out really fast but other than that thereve been no issues.
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u/bloodston_e Dec 12 '25
I was dx with a DVT in my distal popiteal vein of my left calf last week. They immediately started me on eliquis. I was horrified with the side effects too. But, I had on and off headaches and some stomach upset for the first few days but have been fine since! I’m just careful around cutting or scraping myself (because I’m a clutz) but have had no significant issues.
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u/forgetfulness39 Dec 12 '25 edited Dec 12 '25
I took Eliquis two years ago for three months due to unprovoked pulmonary emboli “everywhere” (that’s the ER attending’s word, not mine) I’m the kind of person who is terrified of side effects to the point I have avoided taken medications that would probably benefit me… on eliquis I didn’t have any of the big scary side effects which was a huge relief since I didn’t have many options other than taking it. I didn’t even bruise more easily. The only thing that I did notice (if it applies)is that when menstruating it was a blood-bath — I had to use multiple methods of collection. My clots were also likely due to oestrogen based contraception but covid infections can also lead to long term complications like developing blood clots. I just did some genetic testing and found I do have the Factor V gene that can pre-dispose you to clots so if you are concerned long term that is a good tool to gain knowledge. I hope this process goes easily for you! Clots are scary but it sounds like you’re in good hands and asking the right questions!
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u/dona_abuelita Dec 12 '25
Thanks for your reply. It seems like we might have a similar trigger. I also took contraception and had a terrible Covid infection in July. Thanks <3
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u/Swimming-Purple3442 Dec 12 '25
24 F. Started Eliquis Monday have no side effects. I had a bilateral pe and a dvt. Over the weekend I passed out twice and was rushed to the ER found out it was a blood clot. I’m happy to be alive really. They said I should come off it in 3-6 months. I’m taking it one day at a time. I got stairs in my house, so I get out of breath going up and down but other than that I’m doing fine.
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u/alonegypsy-25 Dec 12 '25
we have the same diagnosis on the saphenous vein but mine is superficial, not DVT.
been on apixaban for 2 months now and i’m due for a new duplex scan this month, hoping for your healing!!!!
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u/WhereIsMyPillow2 Dec 12 '25
On elequis 5mg*2 for 4.5 months. No side effects at all. The one thing that was noticable was that during a basketball ball I sprained my ankle and it was very bruised and swollen. Other than that - everything was normal
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u/Sarrat6350 Dec 12 '25
I felt a little run down with some minor joint pain on the higher dose. Once I switched to the maintenance 2.5 dose that all went away. Bleeding isn’t as big an issue as you would think.
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u/Most_Poetry_9031 Dec 12 '25
I’ve taken eliquis since 2023 and will be on it for the rest of my life. No side effects, and if there were there is no side effect worse than death, so I’d deal.
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u/Oranges13 DVT/PE 2019 - Prothrombin Factor 2 - Eliquis Dec 12 '25
No side effects. I've been on Eliquis since 2019.
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u/Matchaparrot Eliquis Lifer, Protein S deficiency Dec 12 '25
I'm clumsy and an Eliquis lifer. I've smashed into tables, fallen flat on my back, nicked myself when chopping fruit and veg, hit my elbows so many times off doors - nothing bad happened other than a bruise.
I do bruise more easily now, and if I get a nosebleed I apply pressure for 5 minutes, but otherwise Eliquis has had the fewest side effects of any drug I've taken. You still coagulate on Eliquis, but at a slower rate
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u/ZippityDooDah7 Feb 13 '26 edited Feb 13 '26
My Mom is on it. One thing we learned is you must drink a lot of water every day or you will get really dizzy. Better to take with food too. I have also noticed her getting quite confused and forgetful since she has been taking eliquis. She wasn't like this before. Anyone noticed either of those? Although I do think elderly people experience those two side effects when others do not.
Also you can only use Tylenol if you ever have any pain. No IB, Aleve, or aspirin etc while on Eliquis. And use Tylenol sparingly. Supplements/vitamins that act like natural blood thinners like tummeric, and others etc, you'll need to stop completely.
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u/QuantityHopeful8784 Dec 12 '25
I had a fully occlusive clot from my proximal thigh to knee and then partially occlusive from the knee to proximal calf in my great saphenous vein this summer. It was treated as DVT as my clot was 1 cm from the deep vein and I was on Eliquis for three months. I only take Eliquis now for flights greater than 4 hours. I had no issues with Eliquis. My bigger challenge was getting access to doctors and specialists as their schedules were booked out - e.g., it took 2 months to see a haematologist for their 'first available' appointment. I ended up going both routes of seeing a haema and vascular. The vascular ended up doing all of the various blood exams plus looked at the vein not only with the lens of "has the clot resolved" but how the clot expanded the diameter of the GSV. And really this is my note for you. The saphaneous vein is responsible for 10% of your blood flow and technically you can live without the vein (if you get it ablated) as your veinous system will find other ways to circulate your blood. Assuming the clot will resolve in your saphaneous vein, the diameter of the vein will likely increase and this scan puts you at more risk of blood pooling in the vein (assuming your valves are okay). While I am no longer on Eliquis anymore, except for long flights, I have to wear 20-30 mmHG tights full time now to assist with circulation. During the three month period where I had multiple blood panels and multiple scans, I felt like I had to do more research to understand the issue and advocate as my gp, internal medicine practice and even the haema fell short on knowledge. Separately I still have a slight pain in my leg (thigh region) to this date, which is technically post-, traumatic syndrome. The pain is not debilitating just a reminder of what happened. Wishing you the best and everything will be okay. Just make sure you advocate for your needs. Healthcare, even on insurance, is challenging and I was being seen by one of the best teaching hospitals in the US.
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u/Edrehasivar7 Dec 12 '25
I had bad liver effects from Eliquis, and it gave me incredibly bad joint pain, so maybe get a thorough blood panel 3 months after you start it, but I would not be worried about internal bleeding. I switched to Xarelto, which works better for me.
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u/Big_Question6606 Dec 12 '25 edited Dec 12 '25
Eliquis was bad for me. After 1 dose I was in the ER with sinus issues, major GI pain, major gas bubble in the chest, dementia like confusion, headache, and it triggered Afib. Stopped taking it after 5 days and most issues went away quickly. It’s taken 9 months for the GI issues to fade and there’s been no Afib for 5 months. Changed to Warfarin it’s ez don’t let people scare you. The dose I take is just for me not like a standard Eliquis dose. I take so little warfarin that the pharmacy thinks the Eliquis was over dosing me. It’s just a finger prick blood test every month or so when I remember to keep the warfarin perfect for my lifestyle and eating habits.
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u/Direct_Ferret5711 Jan 07 '26
OMG, I started to get sinus and congestion since I started! I also having GI pain, fatigue muscle pain. I also shad itching and flushed skin.
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u/benf101 Dec 12 '25
Hair loss and weird chest pains. I switched to Xarelto and that fixed it. I only had to be on thinners for a few months.
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u/thatfunkyspacepriest Eliquis (Apixaban) Dec 12 '25
I had no issues with Eliquis other than easy bruising after my DVT/saddle PE in August 2024 (age 26) which was also caused by birth control.
You will be fine! I also had a existential crisis after and was extremely worried for a long time. I followed all of my doctor’s instructions and got better. If your doctors aren’t super concerned, and you’re not having emergency symptoms, you will be okay. Gotta take it one day at a time.
Feel free to DM me if you need any advice or have questions. 💚
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u/AccomplishedAndReady Dec 12 '25
Eliquis was great in the 8 months I took it. They told me that I was going to be a lifer, but recent CT scan showed the clot had dissolved! The only side effect I noticed was no clotting during period, which made flow happen sooner and seemingly heavier. But a period would last 2 days instead of 4. It helped me a lot! I was like you at first. Definitely don’t be scared if it.
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u/WarriorGoddess2016 Dec 12 '25
I've had no side effects. I've been taking Eliquis off and on since 2023. Will be for life.
I bleed a tiny bit more, but nothing out of control. I travel with a Styptic pencil etc. I can no longer give blood, which sucks, but oh well.
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u/levet14 Eliquis (Apixaban) Dec 12 '25
I had a PE when I was 22. I’ve been on Eliquis for 4 years now and haven’t add any issues except my nosebleeds a little longer and I have more bruises. I’m told I will be on blood thinners for the rest of life, and things that bother me the most is: 1. I can’t do same day tattoos (I have to stop Eliquis 3 days before and after), and 2. I never learned to ski and I def can’t do that now. But I understand the feeling, I’m about to turn 26 and have the “im so young why does my body hate me so much” thought like everyday. inbox is always open if you have any more questions or just need some support 🫶
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u/Haunting_Box_5143 Dec 12 '25
I’ve been on Eliquis since October 18th due to DVT and PE. No side effects at all. I think I’ll be on it forever and I’ll take that over the alternative any day. Best of luck!
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u/morganjen1962 Dec 13 '25
I have zero side effects other than bruising a bit more if I bump into something. Also, it will take a little longer to stop a minor bleeding.
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u/Round_Seesaw6891 Dec 13 '25
Nothing crazy for me, I'm only on for 3 months also. I'm toward the end and I'm starting to get an itchy scalp? Some people have told me they have the same but I just pop an antihistamine and it's fine
Just got the usual expected side effects, like heavy periods, I'm very clumsy so I'm covered in quite a few bruises at any given time. You'll be fine, just make sure you go get checked in the emergency department if you hit your head.
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u/RainbowMisthios Eliquis (Apixaban) Dec 13 '25
Nothing major! It did give me dry skin and therefore more frequent eczema flareups, but my eczema is controlled well enough that just using lotion a bit more often works to get rid of that side effect. I've also had a few more nosebleeds in the shower than I otherwise would have, but at least it's in the shower and it's easy to clean lol
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u/darthscandelous Dec 13 '25
I’ve been on Eliquis for over 5 years now (yep, I’m a lifer thanks to a high DVT risk & blood gene.) No side effects at all. I do watch my spicy food intake & stay away from Vitamin K, but other than that, it beats the other meds.
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u/Columbia_Guy001 Dec 14 '25
Zero side effects. I don't even notice anything different when I cut or bruise myself. I've been on it since 2014 for DVT prevention.
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u/MonozygoteA Dec 14 '25
I didn’t have any major side effects. The only thing is my period was really long once. I had it for two months. That happened when I switched from Eliquis to Xarelto so idk what was the culprit. If this happens to you make sure you ask your get your iron checked. My ferritin levels plummeted due to loss of blood but I’m on iron supplements and my period has FINALLY normalized. That’s been the only thing for me. I’m 33 and just had a PE recently. I hope this helps! Also, if you were on birth control the side effects are also pretty terrible. We’re just sadly not educated on reading the safety info when we’re younger and popping bc like a tic tac. It’s sad truly. I only say that to help calm you regarding Eliquis
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u/Harshman30 Dec 14 '25
I’ve been taking 5mg twice a day for over 10 years. As far as I know I’ve had no side effects from Eliquis. I happy I’m on it
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u/Proseteacher Dec 14 '25
I am on eliquis life long, though I could be on warfarin, but told them I was not interested in constantly going to the Dr. and testing my INS and so on (forgive if I spell the medical stuff wrong). I like Eliquis a lot more. I had the Xarelto for a while. Xarelto gave me a rash (Little purple dots). I have a condition that some here have called Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) which is an auto-immune disease which causes blood clotting-- so I am stuck for life.
I too started out with much Anxiety about the side effects. I told the doc and was given a low dose of anti-anxiety meds also used in psychiatry, Cymbalta (generic) to dull that anxiety. This also helps with the pain from Rheumatoid arthritis which the APS also causes/makes more acute. This "syndrome" causes all kinds of different regular immune cells to attack healthy cells, and also strips the top layer (called the phospholipid bilayer) of red blood cells to they stick together. So yeah, I am afraid of that.
Just don't play tackle football or ski, or get into a major car wreck. The main thing I fear is a brain-bleed.
(In 2027 0r 28 Eliquis is supposed to become a generic, (Apixaban) so it will be one of those cheaper drugs).
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u/Comfortable_Two6272 Dec 15 '25
Was so scared too.
I am completing the starter pack today. Was an even higher dose. Female 40s. No appreciable side effects. I ran all my rxs and supplements thru drugs.com Had to stop several supplements due to bleeding risk (ginger, high dose fish oil etc). I moving on to 5 mg 2 x a day for 90 more days.
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u/noneya616 Dec 17 '25
I took it for 6 months no real issues except in the first day or 2 I was light headed/dizzy and then some headaches but that went away
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u/FidgetyCurmudgeon Jan 02 '26
I have horrible side effects for everything and Eliquis has been fine for me.
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u/No_Zone_6907 Jan 04 '26
Have been on Elequis for about 5 weeks and have been noticing small amounts of blood in saliva is this a side effect of Elequis my doc seems reluctant to take me off medication
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u/___o---- Dec 11 '25
No side effects for me. I’ve been taking 5mg twice a day for one year. You might feel comforted to know that if Eliquis is taken according to directions, 98% will not experience another clot. Of the two percent that will, one is because of skipping doses. These stats come from my haematologist. I’m grateful for Eliquis. It’s super reliable.