From the Research
Patients taking Eliquis (apixaban) should avoid St. John's Wort, as it can significantly decrease Eliquis levels in the blood, potentially reducing its effectiveness in preventing blood clots, as noted in a study published in 2021 1. When considering herbal supplements that interact with Eliquis, it's essential to prioritize those with the most significant potential for adverse interactions.
- St. John's Wort is a primary concern due to its potential to decrease Eliquis levels, as mentioned in the 2021 study 1.
- Other herbal supplements that may interact with Eliquis include:
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Ginkgo biloba
- Green tea
- Turmeric/curcumin supplements
- Dong quai
- Feverfew
- Ginseng These interactions can occur because many herbs affect the cytochrome P450 enzyme system in the liver that metabolizes Eliquis or have inherent antiplatelet or anticoagulant properties themselves, as discussed in a 2017 study 2. It's crucial for patients to inform their healthcare provider about all supplements they are taking and not start or stop any herbal supplement without medical consultation while on Eliquis therapy, as emphasized in a 2021 review 3. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2021 1, highlights the importance of avoiding certain herbal supplements, such as St. John's Wort, to minimize the risk of adverse interactions with Eliquis. Healthcare providers should be aware of these potential interactions and take appropriate precautions to ensure patient safety, as noted in a 2002 study 4 and a 1999 review 5.