When Should Eliquis Be Discontinued Prior To Shoulder Replacement Surgery?

Posted on Mon, 3 Apr 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 3 Apr 2017 Answered on

Wed, 26 Apr 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : How many days prior to a new shoulder replacement surgery should I discontinue my
twice daily Eliquis ( for AFIB) prescription?

Answered by Dr. Dr Sameer Maheshwari (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
At least 5 days

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Welcome.
This is Dr Sameer, cardiologist.
Tab Eliquis has to be stopped 5 days before the surgery as it takes around 5 days to completely eliminate from body.
During this period we continue the blood thinning effect by giving Injectable blood thinner (Inj Enauxaparin or Inj Fondaparinaux) to prevent blood clot formation due to Atrial Fibrillation (AF).

If you have any more question, I'll be happy to help.
Thanks & take care

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D