Apixaban is not a generic drug; it is a brand-name anticoagulant medication. The brand name for apixaban is Eliquis [1].
When Did Eliquis (apixaban) Come to Market?
Eliquis was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in December 2012 [2].
Who Manufactures Eliquis?
Eliquis is manufactured by Bristol Myers Squibb and Pfizer [3].
When Does the Patent for Eliquis Expire?
Patent protection for branded medications like Eliquis is complex and can involve multiple patents covering the drug substance, formulations, and methods of use. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks these patent expirations [4]. Generally, the earliest patents for apixaban began to expire around 2026, but the exact timeline for market exclusivity can be influenced by various factors, including patent litigation and additional patent filings [5].
Can Generic Versions of Apixaban Be Sold Now?
As of late 2023, generic versions of apixaban are not yet widely available in the U.S. market due to ongoing patent protections and exclusivity periods [5].
What Happens After Patent Expiration for Eliquis?
Once patent exclusivity ends and no other legal barriers exist, generic manufacturers can seek FDA approval to produce and market their own versions of apixaban. These generic drugs must be bioequivalent to the branded product, meaning they contain the same active ingredient in the same dosage and are absorbed into the bloodstream at the same rate [6].
How Will Generic Apixaban Affect Drug Pricing?
The introduction of generic competition typically leads to a significant decrease in the price of the medication compared to the branded version [6]. This can make the treatment more accessible for patients and reduce healthcare costs.