Rare serious side effect of Eliquis: Muscle weakness

I had afib and also had the ablation procedure. I was put on eliquis after the procedure. Within two days of being put on 5mg twice a day I had leg muscle pain. Also could not talk because I coughed 24-7. Every time I tried to talk I coughed. My dr told me neither was a side effect I must take. After three weeks my legs and joints hurt worse and still the cough. I weigh 115 lbs. I decided to cut my pills in half. My cough was a little better and muscles still hurt but better. After two weeks I stopped eliquis and took a baby aspirin and vitamin e to thin my blood. No muscle pain or joint pain and my cough stopped. It mite work for some but for others it’s a poison. It’s called quality of life. Good luck.

I am commenting for my husband who suffered extreme side effects from taking Eliquis but was required to stay on the drug until he could have the Watchman Implant (left ventricle appendage closure). Once he passed through the 6 week period of healing with the Watchman, we removed him from the blood thinners and he began to improve.

With intensive physical therapy and a combined GABA supplement (200 mg), CBD oil (250 mg), and micro-dose of hemp THC (0.56 mg), his neuralgia came to an end and he is upright and happy again after 7 years of chronic pain and debilitating psycho-motor dysfunction.

The side effects were dominant in the lower appendages (distal) with spasms and continual tightening of the muscles. His knees and elbows contracted, toes pointed outward, and he had hallmark symptoms of what might be described as Stiff Man Syndrome. Wheelchairs, motor scooters, canes, and walkers were all a part of his maintenance. He lacked bowel and bladder control. Sleeping was a nightmare for him.

Now he is returning to good health once more.

From literature, it appears that Eliquis converts Prothrombin blood clotting protein from the liver into Thrombin (an anticoagulant), which is a positively charged molecule. Excess positive charges on GABAergic receptors may lead to over-excitability of nerves.

Please do not disregard the complaints folks have about side effects. We were fortunate that our doctors listened to our concerns and acted accordingly!

Prescribed Eliquis after stroke. Had to schedule it after physical therapy because I felt to wobbly and unstable after each dose. Now in wheelchair

Have been taking eliquis for two to three years and get a nightly leg pain when sleeping with my legs not extended but after extending all is ok. Also dont sleep well, up every two hours. When I sleep after 3am I do it in 45 minute doses.
Never thought about eliquis being the problem. Thanks will watch for further symptoms.

I have not seen any literature that indicates Eliquis causing weakness. But if anybody thinks this is the cause then why not switch at least temporally to Coumadin? Obviously this is a pain in the butt to use but if any of you are experiencing these kind of problems I would at least rule out Eliquis but trying a totally different drug.

My dad has had serious leg weakness since starting Eliquis. He’s reported it to his primary and cardiologist at every visit for years. They have no explanation, except age. My dad is 86, but was active until recently. His legs are so weak, we’re afraid he’s going to fall. He can barely make it with a walker. Nursing home now seriously considered. Due to his age and a desire for quality of life, we plan to request review of this med. He takes it twice a day, along with other heart meds.

Daddy had quadruple bypass after heart attack at age 63 with 4 stents since. He’s done quite well, except for A fib when he went with a different cardiologist. We got back with his former cardiologist and had a successful electrical cardioversion. He’s been in rhythm ever since. But, the leg weakness is worse. He regularly sees his primary and cardiologist annually. Labs are really good. Cardiogram this past summer showed better heart function than previous year. He does have cognitive decline. He wants to be able to walk outside, go to grocery store, garden, etc. Quality time is precious.

I hope there will be some options when we speak with his cardiologist. My dad has surprised all of doctors with his survival and relative good health.

So glad people are posting abt leg weakness on Eliquis. This can explain mine. I am 74 have been kn eliquis for 8 years for paroxysmal afib. Two years ago i developed sudden weakness in lower extremities. Up til that point I had been participating in HIIT twice a week plus other aerobic activities when suddenly i couldn’t lift the ropes ( exercise equipment). Now again having very weak legs even though I am working out and strength training.

Thank you for this explanation. I am hopefully that my son will regain more strength and mobility when he is off Eliquis soon.

Ruby, I'm so sorry to learn your son is suffering.

Remember, reach out to providers who understand and ask for help making a progress plan that is slow and steady. Recovery from any health issue takes time and thoughtful intervention.

Don't worry and don't rush. Make the journey a peaceful plan of progress.

Good luck!

Wow, I never thought about Eliquis causing leg pain and weakness. I've been on it for years, has an ablation and they still have me on it. I have so many other issues, I never put two and two together. Makes sense though. What a bummer. I don't think I'll ever be off of it. Thanks for your comment.