Eliquis (apixaban) is a widely used anticoagulant prescribed to prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and pulmonary embolism (PE). Manufactured by Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer, it is one of the top-selling drugs in its class.
Medicare Price Negotiation:
Eliquis is among the first ten drugs selected for Medicare price negotiations under the Inflation Reduction Act. This selection is due to its significant impact on Medicare spending, with over $15.2 billion spent in 2022 alone. These negotiations aim to reduce costs for Medicare beneficiaries, with new prices expected to be published by fall 2026.
Patent Expiration:
The primary patents for Eliquis are set to expire in November 2026, which means generic versions could become available shortly after. This potential introduction of generics is likely to drive down prices, making the medication more accessible.
In recent years, significant developments have occurred regarding Eliquis and its generic equivalents. In December 2019, the FDA approved the first generic versions of apixaban, produced by Micro Labs Limited and Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. This approval was a significant milestone as it marked the introduction of generic options for a direct oral anticoagulant.
Generic Equivalent and Availability
Despite the FDA’s approval, the availability of generic apixaban in the United States has faced delays. Due to legal challenges and patent protections held by Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer, the release of generic apixaban has been postponed. As per a court ruling, generics are not expected to enter the U.S. market until April 1, 2028 . This extension means that patients will have to wait several more years for a more affordable alternative to the brand-name medication.
Impact of Generic Apixaban
The introduction of generic apixaban is anticipated to bring significant cost savings to patients. Eliquis can be quite expensive, with prices reaching up to $600 per month without insurance. The availability of a generic version will likely reduce this financial burden, making essential anticoagulant therapy more accessible. However, until the generics are available in the U.S., patients may explore cost-saving measures such as purchasing from reputable international pharmacies where generics are already available.
Legal Concerns and Safety Issues:
Eliquis has faced several lawsuits due to severe bleeding risks and other safety concerns. Unlike warfarin, Eliquis does not have a reversal agent for bleeding, which has led to life-threatening situations for some patients. These issues have resulted in numerous lawsuits against the manufacturers, accusing them of failing to disclose critical safety information and misrepresenting the drug’s efficacy.
Future Considerations:
For patients and healthcare providers, it’s crucial to stay informed about these ongoing developments. The upcoming Medicare price changes and the introduction of generic alternatives could significantly impact treatment decisions and healthcare costs. Additionally, awareness of potential side effects and legal actions can help in making more informed choices regarding anticoagulant therapies.
For more detailed information, consider visiting reliable medical news websites or consulting with healthcare professionals who can provide personalized advice based on the latest updates.