From the Guidelines
Patients taking Eliquis (apixaban) for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the lower extremity should generally wait at least 2-4 weeks after starting treatment before flying, as this allows time for the initial treatment to stabilize the clot and reduce the risk of clot extension or embolization 1.
Key Considerations
- During this initial period, the anticoagulant works to prevent further clot formation while the body's natural mechanisms begin to dissolve the existing clot.
- When cleared to fly, patients should continue taking Eliquis exactly as prescribed (typically 10mg twice daily for the first 7 days, followed by 5mg twice daily) without missing doses, especially around travel time.
- The choice of anticoagulant, such as apixaban, is recommended over vitamin K antagonist (VKA) therapy for patients with DVT of the leg and no cancer, as long-term anticoagulant therapy 1.
Precautions During Flight
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid alcohol
- Perform frequent leg exercises
- Wear compression stockings if recommended by the doctor
- Get up to walk every 1-2 hours when possible These precautions help prevent blood stagnation that could contribute to new clot formation. Always consult with the healthcare provider before planning air travel, as individual circumstances may require personalized recommendations based on the severity of the DVT, overall health status, and the duration of the planned flight.
From the Research
Eligibility to Fly after DVT Treatment with Eliquis
- The studies provided do not directly address the specific question of how long a patient should wait before flying after being treated with Eliquis (apixaban) for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) in the lower extremity 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, it is known that patients with DVT are generally advised to avoid long-distance travel, especially by air, for a certain period after diagnosis to reduce the risk of recurrent DVT or pulmonary embolism.
- The treatment of proximal DVT of the lower limbs typically includes an initial management phase, a primary treatment phase lasting a minimum of 3 months, and a secondary treatment phase for those patients requiring continuing anticoagulation beyond the first 3 to 6 months 3.
- Apixaban is a direct oral anticoagulant that has been shown to be effective in the treatment and secondary prevention of DVT, with a predictable pharmacokinetics and a fixed dose regimen 2, 4.
- There is no specific guidance in the provided studies on the exact timing of when a patient can fly after starting Eliquis for DVT treatment, suggesting that this decision may depend on individual patient factors and clinical judgment.
Considerations for Flying after DVT Treatment
- Patients should consult their healthcare provider for personalized advice on when it is safe to fly after being diagnosed with DVT and starting treatment with Eliquis.
- The decision to fly may depend on various factors, including the severity of the DVT, the patient's overall health, and the effectiveness of the anticoagulant therapy.
- It is essential for patients to follow their healthcare provider's recommendations and take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of recurrent DVT or other complications during air travel.