David asked
I take Eliquis (10 mg per day). Is it OK to take a Mucinex to reduce the discomfort of mucus or phlegm? How many milligrams would be ok?
At a glance
- There is no drug interaction between Eliquis and Mucinex.
Answer
There is no known interaction between Eliquis (apixaban) and Mucinex (guaifenesin). They are considered safe to take together.[1]
Additionally, Mucinex does not affect blood coagulation or alter bleeding time, so it, in most cases, is safe to take with anticoagulants and antiplatelets.
In terms of the dose of Mucinex that is safe to take, you can simply take it as directed per the package directions.
Extended-release Mucinex products can be dosed as:[2]
- 600 mg to 1,200 mg every 12 hours
Immediate-release Mucinex products can be dosed as:
- 200 mg to 400 mg every 4 to 6 hours
As stated, it is safe to take with Eliquis, even at the same time.
Drugs available over the counter that you want to avoid with Eliquis are NSAIDs. These include ibuprofen and naproxen. NSAIDs can thin the blood, and increase the risk of bleeding if taken with Eliquis. The prescribing information for the drug specifically mentions avoiding them (unless otherwise directed by your doctor).[3]
References
- ^ Elsevier ClinicalKey Drug Interaction Report. ClinicalKey (Subscription Required)
- ^ Elsevier ClinicalKey Mucinex Monograph. ClinicalKey (Subscription Required)
- ^ Eliquis Prescribing Information
