Apixaban and colonoscopy?

[Bobkins99]

I am scheduled for my regular colonoscopy. Because I have had polyps removed in pervious procedures I have asked if I should stop my Apixaban (long term due OHS) prior to. The gastro team said yes, 72hs prior but I should check with the cardio team. I called the cardio team and they told me to check with my GP. My GP then referred my to the pharmacist who said "yes, that SHOULD be ok" but didn't seem to be very sure. Any thoughts?

[Hidden]

Tricky one, but somebody needs to take responsibility for your welfare. I suggest it's the cardio team. Your GP has nothing to do with your procedure and I imagine is only generally following the medication care plan prepared by the cardio team. Your pharmacist is even further away from matters. So if I were you I would revert to the cardio team, who at the moment seem to have slopey shoulders.

[Humbug1952]

I had it done and they stopped my apixaban3days before !

[bridgeit]

I think this is a question for your cardio team. Why they referred you back to a GP is a very good question - and one that you should ask them if they try to do that again. I suggest you email your cardiac specialist directly and ask him/her for their opinion. They are unlikely to say that you'll definitely be safe having stopped the anti-clotters, but they should at least be able to offer a considered view about how long to stay off them to minimize risk, having a good understanding of your heart/blood vessel status.

On the other hand, they might next suggest you seek the opinion of your local vet!

[EMBoy]

I think it's standard procedure to stop apixaban for 3 days prior to any invasive procedure. It is to prevent excessive bleeding if they take any biopsies. Your GI team do this all the time, so will be familiar with the risks involved.

Don't worry too much - the pharmacist is probably right.

[James_son]

usually the doctors at the hospital will tell you what day to skip meds and it looks like this lot want to pass responsibility, three days is no big deal