Can I take Alogliptin and Apixaban together?

Why this happens

Alogliptin (a diabetes medication) and apixaban (a blood thinner) are processed by different pathways in the body. Alogliptin is primarily excreted unchanged by the kidneys, while apixaban is processed by specific liver enzymes (CYP3A4) and a transport protein (P-gp). Because they do not compete for the same 'processing machinery,' they do not interfere with each other's levels in the blood.

What you should do

You can continue to take both medications as prescribed by your doctor. As with any medication, you should monitor for general side effects and attend your regular blood sugar and health check-ups. If you notice any unusual bruising or bleeding, inform your healthcare provider, though this would be a general side effect of apixaban rather than an interaction with alogliptin.

Important precautions

Bleeding risk and surgery

You must tell any doctor, dentist, or surgeon that you are taking apixaban before any procedure, as it increases your risk of serious bleeding. You may need to stop taking it temporarily. Seek immediate medical help if you have a serious fall or head injury.

Pancreatitis

Stop taking alogliptin and contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe and persistent stomach pain, which may reach through to your back, as this can be a sign of an inflamed pancreas (pancreatitis).

Food and drink warnings

Grapefruit and Grapefruit Juice

Grapefruit can increase the levels of apixaban in your blood, which may increase your risk of bleeding. While the effect is less severe than with some other medicines, it is best to avoid consuming large amounts of grapefruit or its juice while taking this medicine.

Alcohol

Moderate alcohol consumption is generally safe, but heavy drinking or binge drinking should be avoided. For apixaban, alcohol can increase the risk of stomach bleeding. For alogliptin, excessive alcohol can increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) and, in rare cases, inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis).

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.