Table of Contents

I. Is There a Generic Version of Eliquis?

II. When Was Apixaban Approved?

III. How Does Apixaban Work?

IV. Is the Generic Version of Eliquis Safe?

V. Filling Your Prescription for Apixaban

Is There a Generic Version of Eliquis?

Eliquis is commonly prescribed to patients after surgery and for people at risk of blood clots. Eliquis can help to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a pulmonary embolism (PE), heart attack, and stroke. If you are taking Eliquis as part of your treatment plan, you may be wondering if there is a generic version of Eliquis available on the market.

Yes! At Canada Pharmacy Depot, we carry apixaban (generic) in addition to its brand-name counterpart. Apixaban is relatively new, so we know you have questions. Read on to learn more about the generic version of Eliquis.

When Was Apixaban Approved?

Apixaban received a marketing authorization on July 23, 2020, allowing apixaban to be sold on the market. [1] Prior to this marketing authorization, apixaban was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on December 23, 2019. Promoting generic versions of drugs is part of FDA’s Drug Competition Action Plan that aims to make important medications more affordable to patients. [2]

How Does Apixaban Work?

Apixaban is “bioequivalent” to its brand name counterpart Eliquis. When two drugs are bioequivalent, their respective active substance are the same. This means that apixaban works the same way as Eliquis. [1]

The active substance in apixaban is a factor Xa inhibitor. By blocking the enzyme Xa, the body produces less thrombin. Thrombin is largely responsible for the body’s clotting factor, so reducing thrombin levels can reduce the risk of blood clots. [1]

Essentially, apixaban helps blood flow more easily. Improved blood flow and circulation can increase the risk of a bleeding event, but it can also decrease the likelihood of a dangerous blood clot. Just like Eliquis, apixaban is commonly prescribed to those with atrial fibrillation or those who have recently had a surgical procedure. [3]

Is the Generic Version of Eliquis Safe? 

Because apixaban is bioequivalent to Eliquis, both the generic version and the brand name version carry similar benefits and risks. According to the European Medicines Agency (EMA), apixaban was approved because the drug’s benefits outweigh its identified risks. Like Eliquis, apixaban must be prescribed by your doctor and taken properly to minimize side effects and unwanted drug interactions. [1]

Like any blood thinner, apixaban comes with the risk of excessive bleeding from an open wound or internal injury. It is also important not to stop taking apixaban suddenly because doing so can increase your risk of a blood clot. If you have an upcoming surgery, always let your doctor know if you are taking apixaban. Apixaban can cause spinal cord blood clots if you receive an epidural (spinal anesthesia). [4]

If apixaban is part of your treatment plan, it is important to avoid drug interactions. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and indomethacin can interact with apixaban and increase the risk of long-term paralysis and other health complications. [4]

To take apixaban safely, always consult the educational material included with the medication and follow your doctor’s directions. By discussing your pre-existing conditions with your doctor, following the right dosage, and storing apixaban in the right conditions, apixaban can safely prevent complications associated with blood clots. [4]

Filling Your Prescription for Apixaban

Currently, the patent for Eliquis is held by the major pharmaceutical companies Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer. This patent on Eliquis does not expire until 2026, which means the generic version of Eliquis is currently not available through U.S pharmacies. [5] The good news is that you can have your prescription for apixaban filled and delivered through an online Canadian pharmacy like Canada Pharmacy Depot.

Our online ordering platform is easy to use. On the drug page for Eliquis, you will find options for both brand name and generic versions of apixaban. By using an online Canadian pharmacy, you can have apixaban delivered straight to your front door at a fraction of the usual cost. Visit the drug page for apixaban to see how you can save on the generic version of Eliquis today.

The content provided in this article is based on thorough research and in some cases, reviewed by a medical professional. Our goal for the information is to provide helpful, general health informational. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice.