When Will Eliquis Go Generic in the USA and Become More Affordable?

When Will Eliquis Go Generic in the USA and Become More Affordable?

Eliquis (apixaban) is a commonly prescribed anticoagulant medication used to reduce the risk of blood clots and strokes in conditions like atrial fibrillation (AFib) and following certain surgeries. Known for its effectiveness and relatively low bleeding risk, Eliquis has become a popular choice for blood thinning. However, the high cost of Eliquis in the U.S. has left many patients struggling to afford it, especially given that they may need to take it for extended periods or even for life. So, when will Eliquis become more affordable through generic availability, and what are the options in the meantime?

Why Is Eliquis So Expensive in the U.S.?

The high cost of Eliquis in the U.S. stems from a combination of factors, including patent protections, the lack of pricing regulations, and the complexities involved in developing and manufacturing anticoagulants. Here’s a closer look at these driving factors:

1. Patent Protection and Market Exclusivity Eliquis was developed by Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer, who hold patents on the drug, allowing them exclusive rights to sell it in the U.S. This exclusivity enables them to set high prices without competition, which they justify as necessary to recoup their significant development and marketing costs. While FDA-approved generic versions of Eliquis were introduced in 2019, ongoing patent litigation has prevented these generics from being marketed in the U.S., effectively extending Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer’s monopoly until at least 2026.

2. Lack of Drug Price Regulations The U.S. differs from other countries in that it lacks regulations on drug pricing. In Canada and many European countries, government bodies negotiate or set caps on drug prices. In the U.S., pharmaceutical companies can set prices based on what the market will bear, often leading to much higher prices than in other countries. This lack of regulation has contributed significantly to the high cost of Eliquis in the U.S.

3. Complexity of Anticoagulant Development Developing an anticoagulant like Eliquis requires extensive clinical trials and precise formulation to ensure its safety and effectiveness in reducing blood clots. This research and development process is expensive, especially for a medication where precision is crucial to avoid risks associated with blood thinning. Although this investment justifies higher prices during the patent period, it underscores the need for affordable generics as soon as exclusivity expires.

When Will Generic Eliquis Be Available in the U.S.?

While generic versions of Eliquis have been approved by the FDA, ongoing patent protections are likely to delay their U.S. market availability until 2026. Although there is a chance that ongoing litigation could result in an earlier release of generics, the 2026 timeline remains the most probable scenario unless a settlement is reached.

When generic Eliquis does become widely available, it will likely offer significant savings, as generics are generally priced 80% to 85% lower than their brand-name counterparts. This drop in price will make apixaban more accessible for many patients who have struggled with the high cost of Eliquis.

Comparison of Eliquis and generic medication costs

How Long Might Patients Need to Be on Eliquis?

The high cost of Eliquis is especially concerning given that many patients require it for long-term or even lifelong use. Here are some common reasons why patients might need to stay on Eliquis for an extended period:

1. Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Patients with AFib are often prescribed Eliquis indefinitely to prevent blood clots and reduce stroke risk. AFib is a chronic condition, so treatment with a blood thinner like Eliquis is generally needed for life.

2. Blood Clotting Disorders For those who have experienced blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE), long-term use of Eliquis may be recommended to prevent future clotting events. Depending on the patient’s risk profile, Eliquis might be prescribed for months, years, or even for life.

3. Post-Surgical Use Patients recovering from surgeries like hip or knee replacement may be prescribed Eliquis temporarily to prevent blood clots. In these cases, treatment typically lasts a few weeks to a few months, making the cost slightly less burdensome compared to long-term or lifelong use.

For patients who need Eliquis long-term, the delay in generic availability means they may face years of high costs unless more affordable options become accessible.

Exploring Affordable Options: Buying Eliquis from Canada

While we wait for a generic version of Eliquis in the U.S., some patients are exploring alternatives to manage the cost. One such option is purchasing Eliquis from Canadian pharmacies, where it is available at a much lower price. In Canada, a 30-day supply of Eliquis (60 tablets) costs around $75, compared to several hundred dollars in the U.S. Patients interested in this option can legally order Eliquis from Canada with a valid U.S. prescription, providing a practical way to access the medication without financial strain.

Final Thoughts

The high cost of Eliquis in the U.S. and the delay in generic availability have created a significant financial burden for many patients. Given that patients with AFib or clotting disorders often require long-term or lifelong treatment, the need for affordable access is pressing. Although the introduction of generic Eliquis is likely a few years away, patients should speak with their healthcare providers about alternative options, such as ordering from Canada, to help manage costs in the meantime. Until generics become widely available, staying informed and exploring safe, legal ways to save on essential medications like Eliquis can make a meaningful difference for patients’ health and finances.

References:

FDA Approves First Generics of Eliquis
This FDA press release announces the approval of the first generic versions of Eliquis (apixaban), providing insights into the regulatory aspects and anticipated market impact.
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-generics-eliquis