Colonoscopy and Apixoban

[foxglove1]

Has anyone had a colonoscopy and had to stop Apixoban?

[CDreamer]

doctors have different preferences but I seem to remember that my husband, who had one recently and was on Dabigatran, was told to miss his evening before and his morning dose. He forgot and took his evening before dose and had a little bleeding which was not expected but nothing alarming. He was given the colonoscopy because of rectal bleeding so it wasn’t unexpected. All was clear and he was able to drive there and home again the same day and resumed Apixaban the following morning.

I think it depends upon various factors such as the risks of that particular procedure, the patient and there seems to be some variance on views in the medical literature but the consensus seems to be to stop for 24-48 hours prior to the procedure.

[Desanthony]

Yes, I had to stop apixaban 24 hours before the colonsocopy. Some consultants say 48 hours it all depends on the hospital and consultant as most have different ways of working. You may easily be "nicked" during the procedure and will bleed so coming off anticoagulants is important. Also whilst "looking" around your consultant may be taking samples for biopsy or may even want to remove polyps or something similar - easier done there and then than go through the procedure again so coming off anticoagulants for a short time is important to stop bleeding too much. I had biopsy samples taken and polyps removed during the procedure and didn't ask for sedation. If your consultant is going to do this I would definitely ask for sedation as it was very uncomfortable and sometimes quite painful. I didn't think I needed it as had had a couple of colonoscopies previously but if they know they are going to be taking biopsies or possibly removing polyps then go for sedation.

You will be fine though it is not an enjoyable experience.

[Maggimunro]

I’ve had 2 colonoscopies and not had to stop my Apixiban. I didn’t have have bleeding afterwards.

Even if they find polyps and remove them, it is more of a scrape than a cut.

[foxglove1]

Thank you for being reassuring. I’ve had various procedures where I’ve been told I hardly bleed at all but wanted to check bout colonoscopy.

Apprehensive about it all as positive FIT test and feel sure something going on. Thanks again

[john-boy-92]

As per CDreamer's post, I have been advised to stop Dabigatran for a short while when I have the upcoming colonoscopy. No worries about that, but the looming second prostate biopsy means a relative lengthy period not taking Dabigatran and, I don't want a second stroke.

[foxglove1 in reply to john-boy-92]

Wishing you well. Age is no joke

[john-boy-92]

Thank you and the same to you. I'm thinking of asking my marvellous local hospital (Southmead, Bristol) for a loyalty card