Meta Title: Is There a Generic for Eliquis? Everything You Need to Know
Meta Description: Learn if there’s a generic version of Eliquis, its availability, cost, alternatives, and what patients need to know before switching.
Eliquis, a widely used prescription medication for preventing blood clots, has become a household name for people dealing with conditions like atrial fibrillation or deep vein thrombosis. If you’ve been prescribed Eliquis, you already know it can be quite expensive. This brings up a common question: Is there a generic for Eliquis?
The short answer is yes, a generic version of Eliquis exists—but there’s more to the story. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the generic availability of Eliquis, its name, cost differences, alternatives, and important considerations before making the switch.
What Is Eliquis and Why Is It Prescribed?
Eliquis is the brand name for apixaban, an oral anticoagulant (blood thinner). It works by inhibiting Factor Xa, a protein involved in blood clotting. By doing this, Eliquis reduces the risk of dangerous clots forming in the body.
Common Uses of Eliquis
Doctors typically prescribe Eliquis for:
- Atrial Fibrillation (AFib): To lower the risk of stroke caused by irregular heartbeats.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): To treat or prevent blood clots in the legs.
- Pulmonary Embolism (PE): To prevent clots from traveling to the lungs.
Eliquis is often chosen because it does not require regular blood monitoring like older anticoagulants such as warfarin. It also has fewer dietary restrictions, which makes it more convenient for patients.
Is There a Generic Version of Eliquis Available?
The Short Answer
Yes, there is a generic for Eliquis. The generic name for Eliquis is apixaban, and it’s the same active ingredient as the brand-name drug. The generic version is designed to work the same way in your body as Eliquis, meaning it should have the same effectiveness and safety profile.
FDA Approval for Generic Eliquis
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved generic versions of Eliquis in December 2019. However, approval doesn’t always mean immediate availability. Manufacturers often have to navigate patent protections before they can start selling their product.
Is It Available in Pharmacies Now?
Yes, as of 2024, generic Eliquis (apixaban) is available in many pharmacies across the United States. Several manufacturers produce it, which has helped lower prices compared to the brand-name version.
When Did Generic Eliquis Become Available?
Although the FDA approved generics in 2019, patent lawsuits and market exclusivity delayed their release. The original patents for Eliquis were held by Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer. After several legal disputes, generic manufacturers were allowed to bring their products to market in 2026, but early entry agreements allowed some companies to launch sooner.
This means that in most locations, generic Eliquis is available now, and the prices have started to come down. However, in some regions, availability may still be limited depending on your pharmacy and insurance coverage.
Eliquis Cost vs Generic Apixaban Cost
One of the biggest reasons people look for a generic is cost savings. Brand-name Eliquis can cost hundreds of dollars per month without insurance.
Price Comparison
- Brand-Name Eliquis: Around $500 to $600 per month (without insurance).
- Generic Apixaban: Prices can be 50% lower or more, depending on the pharmacy and manufacturer.
Generic competition typically drives prices down further over time, so the cost difference is likely to increase in the coming years. is there a generic for eliquis
Are Generic and Brand-Name Eliquis the Same?
Many patients worry that switching to a generic might mean compromising on quality or safety. Here’s what you need to know: is there a generic for eliquis
- Same Active Ingredient: Generic apixaban contains the exact same active ingredient as Eliquis.
- FDA Standards: Generics must meet the same rigorous standards for quality, purity, and effectiveness.
- Different Inactive Ingredients: While the active ingredient is the same, the fillers or coloring agents may differ slightly. This rarely affects how the drug works but could matter for people with certain allergies.
Bottom line: The generic version is just as effective and safe as Eliquis. is there a generic for eliquis
Alternatives to Eliqui
If you’re considering options beyond Eliquis or its generic version, there are other anticoagulants you can discuss with your doctor. is there a generic for eliquis
Common Eliquis Alternatives
- Xarelto (rivaroxaban): Another Factor Xa inhibitor similar to Eliquis. is there a generic for eliquis
- Pradaxa (dabigatran): A direct thrombin inhibitor.
- Warfarin: An older anticoagulant that requires regular blood monitoring but is much cheaper.
Each option has pros and cons. For example, warfarin is less expensive but comes with dietary restrictions and requires frequent blood tests. Newer drugs like Xarelto and Pradaxa offer convenience but are still brand-name for the most part. is there a generic for eliquis
Risks, Safety, and Effectiveness of Generic Versions
Switching to a generic version is generally safe and recommended by doctors when possible. However, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Talk to Your Doctor: Never switch medications without consulting your healthcare provider.
- Check for Allergies: Some inactive ingredients may differ. If you have allergies, review the label.
- Consistency is Key: Do not skip doses or switch between brands without guidance, as this can increase your risk of clotting or bleeding. is there a generic for eliquis
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is there a generic name for Eliquis?
Yes, the generic name for Eliquis is apixaban. It is the same medication, just without the brand name. is there a generic for eliquis
2. When will generic Eliquis be available?
Generic Eliquis is already available in most U.S. pharmacies as of 2024, but availability can vary by region.
3. Is generic Eliquis cheaper than brand-name Eliquis?
Yes, generic apixaban usually costs significantly less than Eliquis, often saving patients 50% or more.
4. Are there any risks in switching to a generic?
No major risks, as generics meet the same FDA quality standards. Always check with your doctor before switching. is there a generic for eliquis
Final Thoughts
So, is there a generic for Eliquis? Absolutely—apixaban is the generic name, and it’s now widely available. Making the switch can save you a lot of money without sacrificing safety or effectiveness. However, always consult your doctor before changing any medication, as your treatment plan should remain consistent and carefully managed.
As more generic versions enter the market, prices will likely continue to drop, making this essential medication more accessible to patients everywhere.
