Apixaban is marketed under the brand name Eliquis [1][2].
Why is Eliquis also called apixaban?
Apixaban is the generic or non-proprietary name for the active pharmaceutical ingredient in Eliquis [1][2]. This naming convention is standard for drugs, where a generic name refers to the chemical compound, and a brand name is assigned by the manufacturer for marketing purposes [1].
What kind of drug is Eliquis (apixaban)?
Eliquis is an anticoagulant, commonly referred to as a blood thinner [3]. It belongs to a class of drugs called direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) [4]. Apixaban works by inhibiting Factor Xa, a key enzyme in the blood clotting cascade [4]. This action reduces thrombin generation and helps prevent the formation of blood clots [4].
What is apixaban used to treat?
Apixaban is prescribed to prevent and treat blood clots in various conditions. It is used to reduce the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AFib) [3][5]. It is also used to treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), and to reduce the risk of recurrent DVT and PE [3][5].
When does the patent for apixaban expire?
The patent landscape for apixaban is complex, with multiple patents covering different aspects of the drug and its uses. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent expirations and exclusivity periods for pharmaceuticals. For specific details on apixaban's patent expiry dates, consulting a resource like DrugPatentWatch.com would be necessary [6].
Can generic versions of apixaban be made available?
Once patents and other forms of market exclusivity expire, generic manufacturers can apply to produce and market generic versions of apixaban [7]. The availability of generics typically leads to lower drug prices.
How does apixaban compare to other blood thinners?
Apixaban is a DOAC, distinguishing it from older anticoagulants like warfarin, which is a vitamin K antagonist [4][8]. DOACs like apixaban offer potential advantages such as predictable dosing, reduced need for routine blood monitoring, and fewer drug-food interactions compared to warfarin [4][8]. Other DOACs include rivaroxaban (Xarelto) and dabigatran (Pradaxa) [4].
What are the risks associated with apixaban?
The primary risk associated with apixaban, like all anticoagulants, is bleeding [3][5]. This can range from minor bruising to serious, life-threatening hemorrhage [3][5]. Patients should report any signs of unusual or severe bleeding to their healthcare provider immediately [3][5].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[2] https://www.rxlist.com/eliquis-drug.htm
[3] https://www.eliquis.com/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4170837/
[5] https://www.fda.gov/media/135455/download
[6] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[7] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/blog/understanding-drug-exclusivity-and-patent-protection
[8] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atrial-fibrillation/in-depth/anticoagulants/art-20044921