In 2024, many people wonder if there’s a cheaper form of Eliquis. It is called apixaban. A medication called Eliquis aids in the prevention of blood clots. This is important for conditions like atrial fibrillation and deep vein thrombosis. Brand-name drugs like Eliquis can cost a lot. So, a generic version could make them more affordable for patients. This update will give you the newest information on whether a generic Eliquis is out there. It will cover recent news, approvals by regulators, and what patients and doctors might expect soon.
Understanding Generics and Brand-Name Drugs
Patients and healthcare providers both need to know the difference. They need to know between generic and brand-name drugs.
Brand-Name Drugs
Pharmaceutical companies develop and sell brand-name drugs. They invest in research, development, and marketing. These drugs are protected by patents. Patents give the company exclusive rights. They can sell the drug for a certain period, usually about 20 years. Brand-name drugs are often pricier. This is because the company needs to recoup its costs.
Generics
Generics are copies of brand-name drugs and they become available after the patent ends. They have the same active ingredients, strength, form, and how you take them as the brand-name drug. Regulators test generics rigorously and they do this to ensure they are as safe and effective as the brand-name version. Generics don’t need much investment. They are sold at a lower cost.
Benefits of Generics
- Generics are usually cheaper than brand-name drugs. This makes them more affordable for patients and healthcare systems.
- Generics undergo tough tests. These tests ensure they are as safe, effective, and high-quality as the brand-name drug.
- Generic drugs increase access to vital medications. They let more patients afford and benefit from needed treatments.
- Generics’ availability promotes competition in the drug market. This can further lower prices and spur innovation.
Is There a Generic for Eliquis
FDA Approval of Generic Apixaban
Eliquis is the brand name for Apixaban. It is a medication that prevents blood clots and reduces the risk of stroke. The first Eliquis generic name was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The approval was granted to two pharmaceutical companies. They are Mylan and Micro Labs. It lets them produce and sell generic apixaban. This milestone was big. It promised to make the medication more accessible and affordable. This would help patients who need anticoagulation therapy.
Legal Challenges by Brand Manufacturers
The brand manufacturer of Eliquis is Bristol-Myers Squibb. They took legal action, in partnership with Pfizer, to delay the introduction of generic Eliquis. They filed lawsuits to enforce their patents. They claimed the generic manufacturers had infringed on them. One main argument was that the patents cover making and using apixaban. They were said to still be valid and enforceable.
The legal battles resulted in injunctions. Court rulings temporarily prevented the launch of generic versions. Despite the FDA’s approval, these legal maneuvers delayed the wide availability of generic apixaban. They kept the brand-name drug’s market exclusivity for a period. However, over time, as the legal disputes were resolved and patents expired, generic versions began to enter the market, gradually increasing the competition and driving down prices.
These legal strategies are common in the pharmaceutical industry. Brand manufacturers use them to extend their market control. They use them to maximize profits before generics arrive. The history of Eliquis generics underscores the tension between innovation, patent protection, and the need for affordable medication access.
The Current Status of Generic Eliquis (as of June 2024)
Generics Not Yet Available Due to Legal Battles
As of June 2024, Eliquis generic name (apixaban) is still not available on the market. The brand manufacturer Bristol-Myers Squibb started the ongoing legal battles with Pfizer. They have continued to delay the introduction of generics. The FDA approved generic apixaban in December 2019. But, legal challenges have stalled the entry of lower-cost options. The manufacturers have vigorously defended their patents in court. They argue that the patents are still valid and can be enforced. As a result, patients and doctors still rely on the brand name Eliquis. This keeps it exclusive and expensive.
Potential Timeline for Generics (if available)
Projections and estimates for when generic Eliquis will be available have been uncertain. This is due to long legal disputes. Some analysts expected generics by 2022 or 2023. However, ongoing litigation has repeatedly delayed these timelines. The legal battles could end in favor of the generic makers. Or, key patents could expire. Then, generic versions could be available soon. However, as of June 2024, there is no definitive timeline for when patients can expect to see generic apixaban on pharmacy shelves. The situation is changing. Sudden changes could happen based on court rulings and patent settlements.
What Is the Cheapest Alternative to Eliquis?
The cheapest alternative to Eliquis often depends on many factors. These include a patient’s specific medical condition, insurance, and regional availability. However, some commonly prescribed anticoagulants that are generally considered less expensive include:
- Warfarin (Coumadin)
- Dabigatran (Pradaxa)
- Rivaroxaban (Xarelto)
- Edoxaban (Savaysa)
Eliquis Patent Expiration
The patent for Eliquis (apixaban) is set to expire on November 21, 2026, in the United States. When the patent expires, generic Eliquis may become available. They could be cheaper than the brand name. This date marks a big milestone. It could lead to more competition among manufacturers. This would lower prices. It would make the medication more accessible to patients who need anticoagulation therapy. Patients and healthcare providers may expect changes. The changes will affect the availability and cost of Eliquis. They will happen as the pharmaceutical market adjusts to the expiration of its patents.
Why Is Eliquis So Expensive Now?
Eliquis costs a premium because of multiple pharmaceutical industry factors. These include:
Development and Research Costs
The initial research and development (R&D) costs for new medications like Eliquis are substantial. Pharmaceutical companies invest heavily in clinical trials. They do this to get regulatory approval and ensure the safety and effectiveness of their products. These costs are factored into the pricing of the medication to recover investments and fund future research.
Patent Protection
Eliquis is protected by patents held by Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer. The patents give them exclusive rights to make and sell the drug. This exclusivity allows them to set higher prices. They face no generic competition.
Market Demand and Pricing Power
Doctors widely prescribe Eliquis. They do so because it works well. It is also convenient, with once-daily dosing. It is seen as safer than older anticoagulants, like warfarin. High demand for the medication gives the manufacturers significant pricing power in setting the cost.
Lack of Generic Competition
The FDA approved generic versions in 2019. However, legal challenges have delayed their entry. The lack of generic competition lets Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer keep higher prices for Eliquis.
Insurance Coverage Dynamics
Coverage varies by plan and this includes Medicare and private insurers. It affects Eliquis’ out-of-pocket costs. Formulary tiers, co-pays, and deductibles vary widely, leading to considerable differences in what patients ultimately pay.
Some insurance plans, such as Medicare Part D, may offer Eliquis at a lower cost if it is included in a preferred formulary tier, while others through private insurers may have different cost-sharing structures for specialty medications like Eliquis.
What Is as Good as Eliquis but Cheaper?
For those seeking an alternative to Eliquis (apixaban) that is more affordable, several options exist. One alternative is warfarin, also known as Coumadin. Warfarin has been widely used for decades and is much cheaper than newer medications like Eliquis. It requires regular blood tests to monitor its effectiveness and safety. But, it still prevents blood clots and strokes for many patients. However, warfarin interacts with certain foods and other medications, requiring careful monitoring by healthcare providers.
Another option is generic versions of other newer anticoagulants. These include rivaroxaban (Xarelto) and dabigatran (Pradaxa). These medications work like Eliquis. But, they may cost less once generic versions are widely available. They also offer the convenience of once-daily dosing without the need for regular blood monitoring like warfarin. Ask your healthcare provider for advice. Also, look into options like prescription discount programs or generic versions. These steps can help find a cheaper alternative to Eliquis while maintaining effective anticoagulation therapy.
What Year Will Eliquis Go Generic?
Eliquis Generic Release Date
Eliquis (apixaban) became a brand-name drug in 2012. It received FDA approval then. This established it as a widely prescribed anticoagulant. The FDA approved a generic version in 2019. But, Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer, the brand manufacturers, have brought legal challenges. These challenges have delayed its availability. The disputes are about patent protections. Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer argue that generics infringe on them. As a result, generic apixaban isn’t expected until at least April 2028. This is due to ongoing litigation and expiring patents. This delay makes the period longer. Eliquis will remain the main option for patients who need anticoagulation. It will keep the higher costs of the brand-name drug.
People who want cheaper alternatives to Eliquis may need to keep watching the law and rules. Generic drugs might be available in 2028 or later. They could save a lot of money. But, this only applies if legal challenges are solved and generics meet safety and efficacy standards.
Alternatives for Managing Costs
When managing the high costs of Eliquis without access to generic alternatives, it’s essential to engage your doctor in discussions about cost-saving strategies. Firstly, explore manufacturer coupons or patient assistance programs offered by Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer. These programs can substantially reduce the financial burden of Eliquis for eligible patients, providing temporary relief until generics enter the market. Additionally, your doctor can help identify alternative blood thinner medications that are covered by your insurance. Options such as warfarin, dabigatran (Pradaxa), rivaroxaban (Xarelto), or edoxaban (Savaysa) may offer varying cost structures and formulary placements, potentially providing more affordable choices while maintaining effective anticoagulation therapy.
How to Get Eliquis Cheaper Without Insurance?
To get Eliquis (apixaban) at a lower cost without insurance, look into options like 365 Script Care. It is an online pharmacy partner known for competitive pricing. Consider Eliquis manufacturer discount programs from Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer. They occasionally offer savings through coupons or patient assistance programs. Those who cannot afford Eliquis can get help from patient assistance programs. These are offered by drug companies and can provide big relief. It’s also good to compare prices at local pharmacies. You can also consider buying a 90-day supply. This can lower the cost per pill. Watching future developments in generic Eliquis may also offer cheaper options. But, this depends on legal outcomes and market availability.
Explore Affordable Options for Eliquis
As of 2024, a generic version of Eliquis (apixaban) is not available. Legal challenges are delaying its entry into the market. The brand-name medication remains the primary option, albeit expensive for many patients. However, patients seeking Eliquis can explore buying options through 365 Script Care. It is a pharmacy partner known for possibly offering good prices. It is crucial to stay informed about changes in legal proceedings and patent expiration dates. For example, on November 21, 2026. These dates may affect the future availability and cost of generic drugs.
