Introduction
Eliquis is a drug that is commonly used as an anticoagulant to treat and prevent blood clots. While it is an effective medication, patients on Eliquis may experience side effects, one of which is weight gain. This has become a concern among patients who are already dealing with other health issues. This article aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the possible weight gain side effect of Eliquis, giving patients insights and practical tips on how to avoid weight gain while on medication.
Explanation and Analysis
Eliquis, also known by its generic name, apixaban, is a prescription medication used to treat and prevent blood clots in patients. It belongs to a class of drugs called direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), which work by inhibiting the body’s ability to form blood clots. Unlike other anticoagulants like warfarin, Eliquis does not require regular blood tests to monitor its effects and is generally considered safer for patients with a history of bleeding or stroke.
However, like any other medication, Eliquis can cause side effects. According to the official label, weight gain is a possible side effect of the drug. A study published in the journal Clinical Cardiology found that weight gain occurred in 1.1% of patients taking Eliquis. This is a relatively small percentage, but for patients already dealing with health issues, it can be a cause for concern.
Personal Stories
Patients dealing with weight gain as a side effect of Eliquis often feel helpless. It can be challenging to find a balance between taking medication to address one issue while facing another. Some patients have shared their experiences of taking Eliquis and experiencing weight gain.
Samantha is a 54-year-old woman who was prescribed Eliquis after a pulmonary embolism. She noticed a sudden weight gain of 10 pounds after starting the medication, which made her feel self-conscious. It took her three months to realize that she was gaining weight because of the medication and not her diet. She decided to start an exercise routine and change her diet to minimize the weight gain. Samantha’s story is just one example of a patient who had to adapt to the side effects of their medication.
Comparisons
Eliquis is not the only anticoagulant in the market, and it’s essential to compare its weight gain side effect with similar drugs. Some other common anticoagulants include warfarin, dabigatran, and rivaroxaban. A study published in the journal Circulation found that patients taking warfarin and dabigatran had a higher incidence of weight gain than patients taking Eliquis.
This study does not dismiss the importance of addressing the weight gain side effect of Eliquis and exploring ways to mitigate its impact. Still, it suggests that compared to other anticoagulants, the risk of weight gain may be lower with Eliquis.
Diet and Exercise
Patients taking Eliquis who want to avoid weight gain should make conscious efforts to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Avoiding foods high in calories, sugar and starch, fats, and alcohol, is essential. Incorporating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein sources can help prevent weight gain. Patients should also try to work out for at least 30 minutes a day, a minimum of five days a week. Exercise can be simple activities like walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming.
Medical Expert Perspective
Medical professionals recognize the weight gain side effect of Eliquis and have provided insights into the prevalence and potential reasons that patients experience it. In a study published in the Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, researchers found that the risk of weight gain increased with the dosage of Eliquis. They also observed that older patients were more likely to gain weight than younger ones. Knowing this information can help doctors and patients weigh the benefits of medication against the possible side effects.
Conclusion
While weight gain is a possible side effect of Eliquis, patients can take measures to mitigate its impact. Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and being aware of dosage and its impact can help patients avoid weight gain. More importantly, they should work with their doctor to explore other medications if Eliquis is causing significant health challenges. Patients should not feel helpless but take charge of their health by partnering with medical professionals, following a healthy routine, and exploring alternative treatment options.
