Apixaban's Key Patent Expiration
The primary composition-of-matter patent for apixaban (Eliquis), US Patent 6,967,208, expires on February 27, 2026.[1][2]
When Do Other Eliquis Patents Expire?
Eliquis has multiple patents listed in the FDA's Orange Book, including formulation and method-of-use patents extending beyond 2026:
- US 9,326,945 (dosage regimen): Expires December 26, 2031.
- US 9,808,446 (crystalline forms): Expires March 24, 2036.
- US 10,066,982 (solid forms): Expires March 24, 2036.[1][2]
Pediatric exclusivity adds six months to some, pushing effective dates to around August 2036 for later patents.[2]
Why Might Generics Arrive Before 2026?
Bristol Myers Squibb settled with generic makers like Mylan (now Viatris) and Sandoz. Mylan can launch a generic on February 27, 2026, or earlier if another generic enters first. This date aligns with the '208 patent expiry, despite challenges from groups like the Association for Accessible Medicines questioning settlement delays.[1][2][3]
What Happens After Patent Expiry?
Generics are expected to flood the market post-February 2026, potentially dropping prices. Analysts predict U.S. Eliquis sales (over $12 billion in 2023) could halve within a year of generic entry. Biosimilars aren't relevant as apixaban is a small-molecule drug.[2][3]
How Does This Compare to Similar Blood Thinners?
| Drug | Key Patent Expiry | Generic Entry Expected |
|------|-------------------|------------------------|
| Apixaban (Eliquis) | Feb 27, 2026 | 2026 |
| Rivaroxaban (Xarelto) | 2024 (already generic) | Ongoing |
| Dabigatran (Pradaxa) | 2029 (with extensions) | Late 2020s |
| Edoxaban (Savaysa) | 2031 | 2030s[2][4] |
Apixaban lags rivals due to stronger patent protection and settlements.
Sources:
[1]: FDA Orange Book for Eliquis
[2]: DrugPatentWatch.com - Apixaban Patents
[3]: FTC Report on Pay-for-Delay Settlements
[4]: DrugPatentWatch.com - Rivaroxaban Comparison