From the Guidelines
People taking Eliquis (apixaban) should avoid getting piercings without first consulting their healthcare provider due to the increased risk of bleeding complications. Eliquis is an anticoagulant medication that reduces blood clotting, which significantly increases the risk of prolonged or excessive bleeding during and after a piercing procedure 1. If you're on Eliquis, any piercing could potentially lead to serious bleeding complications that may be difficult to control. The bleeding risk varies depending on your specific dosage, why you're taking the medication, and your overall health status. Some key points to consider when taking Eliquis and considering a piercing include:
- The risk of bleeding associated with piercings in patients on anticoagulant therapy, including Eliquis, is a significant concern 1
- Temporarily adjusting your medication schedule around the procedure may be recommended by your doctor, though this carries its own risks related to your underlying condition
- Even if bleeding appears to stop initially, delayed bleeding can occur days later due to the anticoagulant effects
- Piercings create an open wound that increases infection risk, which can be more complicated to manage when on blood thinners Always prioritize your health and safety by discussing any planned body modifications with your healthcare provider before proceeding.
From the Research
Safety of Piercings for People Taking Eliquis
There are no direct studies on the safety of piercings for people taking Eliquis (apixaban). However, we can look at the available evidence on the bleeding risks associated with apixaban to inform our understanding of the potential risks.
- Bleeding Risks: Apixaban is a factor Xa inhibitor that increases the risk of bleeding, particularly when used in combination with other anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents 2, 3.
- Bleeding Management: The management of bleeding risks is crucial when taking apixaban, and physicians should be aware of the potential risks and take steps to minimize them 2.
- Piercing-Related Bleeding: While there is no direct evidence on piercing-related bleeding in people taking apixaban, it is likely that the risk of bleeding will be increased due to the anticoagulant effects of the medication.
- Precautions: People taking Eliquis who are considering getting a piercing should discuss the potential risks with their doctor and take precautions to minimize the risk of bleeding, such as stopping the medication temporarily or using alternative methods to control bleeding 4, 5.
Key Considerations
- The risk of bleeding is a significant concern for people taking apixaban, and piercings may increase this risk.
- People taking Eliquis should consult with their doctor before getting a piercing to discuss the potential risks and take necessary precautions.
- The available evidence suggests that apixaban is a safe and effective medication for preventing stroke and systemic embolism in people with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, but the risk of bleeding must be carefully managed 6, 4.