Sleep disorders are a common issue that affect a significant portion of the population. Melatonin is a popular supplement used to regulate sleep patterns, while Eliquis is a medication prescribed to prevent blood clots. As many individuals with sleep disorders may also be taking Eliquis, a question arises: can i take melatonin with Eliquis?
This article will explore this topic by providing an overview of both melatonin and Eliquis, examining their potential interactions, and discussing alternatives for individuals taking Eliquis who may be seeking sleep support.
It is important to understand the risks and benefits of taking both medications together, as well as the precautions and considerations that should be taken into account. Individuals considering taking melatonin with Eliquis are strongly encouraged to consult with their healthcare provider before doing so.
What is melatonin?
Melatonin is a hormone produced naturally by the body’s pineal gland, located in the brain. The primary function of melatonin is to regulate the sleep-wake cycle, also known as the circadian rhythm.
This hormone is released in response to darkness, and its levels decrease with exposure to light.
Sources of melatonin
Melatonin is naturally produced by the body, but it is also available in supplement form. It can be found over-the-counter in many drugstores, health food stores, and online retailers.
Some foods, such as cherries, bananas, and walnuts, contain small amounts of melatonin.
Benefits and side effects
Melatonin is commonly used as a sleep aid and has been shown to be effective in treating certain sleep disorders, such as insomnia and jet lag.
Additionally, melatonin may have antioxidant properties and may help regulate other physiological processes, such as blood pressure and immune function.
Read More: Does Melatonin Affect Birth Control Implant?
What is Eliquis?
Eliquis is a prescription medication used to prevent blood clots in people with conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).
It belongs to a class of medications known as anticoagulants, or blood thinners, which work by preventing the formation of blood clots.
Uses of Eliquis
Eliquis is commonly prescribed to individuals who have undergone certain surgeries, such as hip or knee replacement, as they are at increased risk for developing blood clots.
It is also used to treat DVT and PE, as well as to prevent stroke in individuals with atrial fibrillation, a type of irregular heartbeat.
Benefits and side effects
The primary benefit of Eliquis is its ability to prevent blood clots, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
It has also been shown to have a lower risk of causing bleeding compared to other blood thinners. However, Eliquis can still cause side effects, such as bleeding, nausea, and headache.
In rare cases, it may cause severe bleeding that requires medical attention. Eliquis can also interact with other medications, including over-the-counter supplements like melatonin, which may increase the risk of bleeding.
It is important to discuss all medications and supplements with a healthcare provider before taking Eliquis.
Can I Take Melatonin with Eliquis?
Can melatonin be taken with Eliquis? The answer is not straightforward, as there is limited research on the interaction between these two substances. However, some studies suggest that melatonin may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Eliquis, which is a blood thinner.
Research on the interaction between melatonin and Eliquis
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics found that melatonin increased the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, another blood thinner, in healthy volunteers.
While warfarin and Eliquis work differently, this study suggests that melatonin may also interact with Eliquis in a similar way.
Risks and benefits of taking both medications together
Taking melatonin and Eliquis together may increase the risk of bleeding, especially if an individual is taking other medications or supplements that also increase the risk of bleeding.
However, if an individual’s healthcare provider determines that the benefits of taking melatonin outweigh the risks, they may recommend taking both medications together.
Precautions and considerations for individuals taking both medications
If an individual is taking both melatonin and Eliquis, they should notify their healthcare provider and monitor for signs of bleeding, such as easy bruising or prolonged bleeding from cuts.
They should also be cautious when taking other medications or supplements that may increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin or ginkgo biloba.
If an individual experiences any adverse effects while taking both medications, they should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Read More: Melatonin Dose for Lung Cancer
Alternatives to melatonin for sleep support
If an individual is taking Eliquis and seeking sleep support but cannot take melatonin due to the potential risk of interaction, there are several alternatives they can consider.
Non-pharmacological approaches
Non-pharmacological approaches to improving sleep include establishing a regular sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime, and creating a sleep-conducive environment, such as a dark and quiet room.
Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga may also be helpful in promoting relaxation and reducing stress, which can contribute to poor sleep.
Other medications that can be taken with Eliquis
There are other medications that may be safe to take with Eliquis and can be used for sleep support.
These include prescription sleep aids, such as zolpidem (Ambien) or eszopiclone (Lunesta), or over-the-counter sleep aids, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or doxylamine (Unisom).
However, it is important to discuss any medication or supplement with a healthcare provider before taking it, as there may still be potential risks and interactions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the potential interaction between melatonin and Eliquis is not well-understood, and it may increase the risk of bleeding. Individuals taking Eliquis who are seeking sleep support should discuss the use of melatonin or any other medication or supplement with their healthcare provider.
Non-pharmacological approaches, such as establishing good sleep hygiene, relaxation techniques, or other medications that may be safe to take with Eliquis, can be helpful in promoting better sleep.
However, it is important to note that a healthcare provider should be consulted before taking any new medication or supplement, as they can determine if it is safe and appropriate for an individual’s specific medical condition.
FAQs
Can I take melatonin with Eliquis?
It is not recommended due to the potential risk of interaction and increased bleeding risk.
What are some alternatives to melatonin for sleep support?
Non-pharmacological approaches such as good sleep hygiene, relaxation techniques, or other medications that may be safe to take with Eliquis can be considered.
What are the benefits of Eliquis?
Eliquis is used to prevent blood clots, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
What are the side effects of Eliquis?
The most common side effect is bleeding. Other side effects may include nausea and headache.
Should I consult a healthcare provider before taking melatonin with Eliquis?
Yes, it is important to discuss the use of any medication or supplement with a healthcare provider.
Can Eliquis be used for sleep support?
No, Eliquis is not used for sleep support. It is a medication prescribed to prevent blood clots.
What should I do if I experience adverse effects while taking melatonin and Eliquis together?
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any adverse effects.
Can you take melatonin with Advil PM?
Yes, it is generally safe to take melatonin with Advil PM. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any new medication or supplement.
Can you take melatonin with carbidopa/levodopa?
It is not recommended to take melatonin with carbidopa/levodopa, as melatonin may decrease the effectiveness of this medication. Individuals should consult with a healthcare provider before taking any new medication or supplement.
Can you take melatonin with Trintellix?
It is generally safe to take melatonin with Trintellix. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any new medication or supplement.
Can you take melatonin with Vraylar?
It is generally safe to take melatonin with Vraylar. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any new medication or supplement.
Can you take melatonin with Vyvanse?
It is generally safe to take melatonin with Vyvanse. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any new medication or supplement.
Medical References
- Chen, J. et al. (2017). Melatonin potentiates the anticoagulant effect of warfarin in healthy volunteers. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, 42(4), 421-427.
- Mayo Clinic. (2022). Melatonin. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-melatonin/art-20363071
- Bristol Myers Squibb. (2021). Eliquis (apixaban) prescribing information. Retrieved from https://www.eliquis.com/content/dam/eliquis/splash-pages/landing/downloads/2021-03/ELIQUIS-PI-Package-Insert.pdf
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2020). How is atrial fibrillation treated? Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/atrial-fibrillation/treatment
- National Sleep Foundation. (n.d.). Sleep hygiene. Retrieved from https://www.sleepfoundation.org/articles/sleep-hygiene
