Eliquis

Is It Safe To Buy Eliquis From A Canadian Online Pharmacy?

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Close-up of hands with Eliquis tablets showing affordable options when you buy Eliquis from Canada

If you’re among the millions of Americans struggling to afford Eliquis, you’re facing an impossible choice: pay hundreds of dollars each month for a medication that prevents life-threatening blood clots, or risk your health by skipping doses or discontinuing treatment altogether. Eliquis (apixaban) has become one of the most commonly prescribed anticoagulants in the United States, yet its price remains out of reach for many patients, even with insurance coverage.

This article examines whether purchasing Eliquis from Canada is safe, legal, and practical for Americans seeking affordable access to this essential medication. Understanding your options matters because medication non-adherence due to cost can lead to serious health consequences, including stroke and pulmonary embolism.

Drawing on FDA guidance, pharmaceutical supply chain data, and information from certified pharmacy organizations, we’ll explore the development and availability of Eliquis, the legal landscape surrounding cross-border medication purchases, how to identify legitimate Canadian pharmacies, and the substantial cost savings available through CIPA-certified sources like MedicationsCanada.com.

What is Eliquis?

Eliquis (apixaban) is a prescription anticoagulant used to lower the risk of stroke and blood clots in patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or pulmonary embolism (PE). 

Brand Eliquis

Eliquis, an anticoagulant, was developed jointly by Pfizer and Bristol-Myers Squibb starting in 2007. The medication received U.S. approval in December 2012. By 2023, Eliquis had become the 28th most frequently prescribed drug in the United States, with over 19 million prescriptions written.

Generic Eliquis

While a generic version of Eliquis (apixaban) was approved by the FDA in 2019, patent litigation has delayed its wide availability in the U.S.

Generic versions are available in several other countries, including Canada, at a much lower cost. The FDA’s Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA: 210128) confirms that approved generics contain the same active ingredients, strength, dosage form, and route of administration as the brand-name drug and must meet the same standards for quality and efficacy.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said on Monday it has approved the first generic version of Bristol-Myers Squibb Co and Pfizer Inc’s blood thinner Eliquis. The approval was granted to Micro Labs Ltd and Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc, the agency said.” (Reuters News December 23, 2019)

The availability of generic medications raises an important question about pharmaceutical supply chains: regardless of whether a medication is brand-name or generic, where do the active pharmaceutical ingredients actually come from? Understanding the source of these ingredients is crucial for patients concerned about drug quality, safety, and the factors that influence medication costs in the United States.

Where are the active ingredients for medications sold in the U.S. obtained?

Information about the U.S. prescription drug supply chain remains fragmented and inconsistent, suggesting that no single entity has a complete understanding of drug sourcing.

According to a 2012 USA Today article, approximately 80 percent of the active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and 40 percent of finished medications come from outside the United States, primarily from countries like India and China. This means that even the U.S. sold medications often rely on a global supply chain for their production. U.S. sold Eliquis 

Is it against the law to order medications from outside the USA?

About five million Americans buy medication internationally each year because of high costs in the United States. – New York Times, March 24, 2014, by Op-Ed Contributor Gabriel Levitt

The FDA explains that it “typically does not object to personal imports of drugs that FDA has not approved under certain circumstances.” They also publish guidance for the personal importation of drug or device products.

If you’re considering purchasing Eliquis or its generic form (apixaban) from Canada or other countries, you may wonder about the legality. Under federal law, importing prescription medications for personal use is generally prohibited, yet millions of Americans continue to do so each year. This creates a regulatory gray area where enforcement remains inconsistent and politically contentious.

In practice, the FDA typically exercises discretion and allows shipments that meet certain criteria: the medication must be for personal use, prescribed by a licensed physician, and limited to a 90-day supply or less. Statistics show that fewer than 1% of prescription drug orders are intercepted at the border.

Additionally, several states have explored or implemented their own prescription importation programs, and some lawmakers have advocated for federal reforms to make Canadian drug importation officially legal, though comprehensive legislation has yet to pass. In February 2021, H.R. Bill 832 was introduced in the House of Representatives with the goal of amending the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to permit personal importation of safe and affordable medications from approved Canadian pharmacies. However, as of 2025, this legislation remains stalled and has not been enacted into law.

How does one safely purchase medications from Canadian online pharmacies?

When considering purchasing medications from Canada, it’s essential to verify that you’re working with a legitimate, regulated pharmacy. The Canadian International Pharmacy Association (CIPA) serves as a vital resource for patients seeking safe access to Canadian medications. Established in 2002, CIPA is a non-profit organization that certifies and monitors online pharmacies operating in Canada. CIPA-approved pharmacies must meet rigorous standards, including proper licensing in their Canadian province, employing licensed pharmacists to review all prescriptions, sourcing medications exclusively from approved manufacturers, and maintaining secure handling of patient information and medication shipments.

For Americans seeking a trusted option, MedicationsCanada.com stands out as an active CIPA member with a proven track record. As a CIPA-certified member, MedicationsCanada.com adheres to all Canadian regulatory requirements and provides you with access to both brand-name Eliquis and its generic equivalent, apixaban, at significantly reduced prices compared to U.S. retail costs.

You can buy brand-name 5mg Eliquis for about $1 per pill online from MedicationsCanada.com.

Our platform offers straightforward ordering processes, requires valid prescriptions from licensed healthcare providers, and ships medications directly to your homes. Our team is available to answer questions about medications, potential interactions, and proper usage, providing an additional layer of safety and support for you navigating your treatment options.

Call us toll-free on +1-866-481-5817 or email info@medicationscanada.com.

Comparing the Cost of Eliquis: U.S. vs. Canadian Pharmacies

Eliquis Prices in the United States

According to data from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and GoodRx, a 30-day supply of brand-name Eliquis 5mg (60 tablets) costs between $550 and $650 without insurance at U.S. retail pharmacies. Even with insurance coverage or discount cards, patients often pay around $450 or more—a price point that remains financially burdensome for many Americans managing chronic conditions.

Eliquis Through Canadian Pharmacies

In contrast, the same 30-day supply of brand-name Eliquis 5mg (60 tablets) purchased through MedicationsCanada.com costs approximately $120 to $150 USD. This represents a potential savings of up to 75% compared to U.S. retail prices, making long-term anticoagulation therapy significantly more affordable for patients who pay out of pocket or face high deductibles.

Generic Apixaban: Even Greater Savings

For those seeking additional cost reduction, generic apixaban available through Canadian pharmacies offers an even more economical option. A 30-day supply of generic apixaban 5mg typically costs between $70 and $90 USD. As an FDA-equivalent generic, it contains the same active ingredient and meets identical standards for safety and efficacy as the brand-name medication, providing therapeutic benefits at a fraction of the cost.

Conclusion

The stark price difference between U.S. and Canadian pharmacies reveals why millions of Americans turn to cross-border medication purchases each year. While Eliquis can cost $550 to $650 per month in the United States, the same brand-name medication is available through CIPA-certified Canadian pharmacies for as little as $120 to $150, with generic apixaban offering even greater savings at $70 to $90 per month. These savings can transform medication adherence from an impossible burden into a manageable reality, potentially preventing the devastating health consequences that occur when patients ration or discontinue anticoagulation therapy due to cost. If you’re considering this option, start by verifying that any pharmacy you consider is CIPA-certified and requires a valid prescription from your healthcare provider.

Contact MedicationsCanada.com at +1-866-481-5817 or info@medicationscanada.com to discuss your options with licensed pharmacists who can guide you through the ordering process. Ensure your shipments don’t exceed a 90-day supply for personal use, and maintain open communication with your prescribing physician about your treatment plan. Taking control of your medication costs doesn’t mean compromising on safety—it means making informed choices that support both your health and financial wellbeing.

References

Blood Thinner Vegetables and Fruits: Natural Foods to Support Healthy Circulation

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Two womenare smiling and interacting at a farmers market filled with fresh blood thinner vegetables and fruits.

Ever worry about blood clots or sluggish circulation? While prescription blood thinners play a vital role for many people, not everyone realizes that everyday foods, especially certain vegetables and fruits, can gently support healthy blood flow. These natural options don’t replace medication, but research shows they may help platelets stay less “sticky,” reduce inflammation, and protect blood vessels.

Understanding how natural blood thinners, vegetables, and fruits work matters because circulation affects everything from heart health to energy levels. That’s why this guide explores the top foods with blood-thinning properties, from garlic and onions to berries and grapes. You’ll also learn about nutrients and enzymes that keep blood moving smoothly, lifestyle tips for safe balance, and when to check in with your doctor. By the end, you’ll know how to use everyday foods to support your heart and circulation better, safely, and naturally.

Even with the use of existing anti-clotting therapies, such as aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), and warfarin (Coumadin), each year there are approximately 400,000 recurrent episodes among patients who previously experienced a stroke or heart attack – Robert Flaumenhaft, Professor of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.

How Natural Blood Thinners Work

Researchers have discovered that rutin, a natural compound abundant in many fruits and vegetables, demonstrates significant potential in preventing dangerous blood clots. The groundbreaking study, conducted by scientists at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), a Harvard Medical School affiliate, successfully demonstrated rutin’s ability to block clot formation in laboratory models of thrombosis.

These natural blood-thinning effects come from four main types of compounds found in everyday foods: salicylates, flavonoids, omega-3 fatty acids, and enzymes.

Salicylates

Salicylates are a group of natural chemicals found in plants that act as a defense against pests and pathogens. Salicylic acid (SA) is present in plant foods such as fruits, vegetables, spices, etc. People eating a vegetarian diet tend to have higher concentrations of salicylic acid circulating in their bloodstream compared to people who eat meat. This happens because salicylic acid occurs naturally in many plant foods – especially fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices. Since vegetarians eat more of these plant-based foods, they consume more natural salicylic acid through their diet.

The amount of salicylic acid that vegetarians excrete in their urine can be similar to what you’d see in people taking small, daily doses of aspirin. This is significant because aspirin is actually acetylsalicylic acid, which the body converts to salicylic acid. 

Flavonoids

Flavonoids, a group of natural substances, are found in fruits, vegetables, grains, bark, roots, stems, flowers, tea, and wine. These natural products are well known for their beneficial effects on health, and efforts are being made to isolate the ingredients, so-called flavonoids. Flavonoids are now considered an indispensable component in a variety of nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, medicinal, and cosmetic applications.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids & Vitamin E

Omega-3 fatty acids are found in foods such as fish and flaxseed. It is also found in plant oils such as soybean, chia seeds, walnuts, and canola oils.  Omega-3 fatty acids reduce one clotting pathway and may interfere with thrombin generation and adhesion, thus altering clot-promoting chemicals.

Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, also plays a role. It slows platelet clumping and, in higher doses, can affect clotting factors that depend on vitamin K.

Enzymes (Nattokinase)

Nattokinase, an enzyme from fermented soy, is especially powerful; it helps dissolve clots and supports your body’s natural way of keeping blood vessels clear. These enzymes may promote heart health without some of the stronger side effects that prescription blood thinners can bring.

Green Vegetables Blood Thinner: Science-Backed Leafy Greens That Affect Blood Clotting

Garlic 

Garlic is a natural blood thinner because it stops blood platelets from sticking together, which lowers the chance of clots forming. This effect comes from a sulfur compound in garlic called ajoene. Garlic can also make blood-thinning medicines work stronger, which may help protect heart health.

Onion 

Onions can help thin the blood because it has antioxidants and compounds that stop clots from forming. Research shows that onion extracts may lower cholesterol and improve blood fat levels, which supports heart health. They also contain quercetin, a plant compound that prevents platelets from clumping, allowing blood to flow more smoothly.

Tomatoes 

Tomatoes have natural compounds that stop platelets from clumping together, which lowers the risk of blood clots. Studies show that tomato extracts may help reduce platelet activity, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels. This supports better blood flow and overall heart health.

Broccoli 

Broccoli contains natural compounds like sulforaphane that may help lower the risk of harmful blood clots. It’s also packed with antioxidants and fiber, which reduce inflammation and support healthy cholesterol levels, protecting the heart. But since broccoli is high in vitamin K, people taking blood thinners should eat it in consistent amounts to avoid interfering with their medication.

Kale

Kale is loaded with antioxidants like quercetin and kaempferol, which fight inflammation and support heart health.

Brussels sprouts

Brussels sprouts can influence blood clotting because they speed up how the body processes warfarin, which may affect its effectiveness. They’re also rich in antioxidants and fiber that help lower inflammation and support heart health. However, since they are high in vitamin K, people on blood thinners should keep their intake steady and monitor it carefully.

Cauliflower 

Cauliflower is rich in antioxidants and fiber, which support good digestion and healthy blood circulation. Since it contains vitamin K, people taking blood thinners should eat it in moderate, consistent amounts.

Cabbage 

Cabbage is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber that help reduce “bad” cholesterol and improve blood vessel health. These properties support better blood circulation and may lower blood pressure, contributing to heart disease risk reduction. 

Artichoke

Artichoke is rich in antioxidants and plant nutrients that protect blood vessels. These compounds may help blood flow smoothly and lower the risks linked with clotting.

Chicory

Chicory leaf compounds reduce platelet activity, making blood less likely to clot too quickly. It also contains antioxidants that protect blood vessels and support smoother circulation.

Which Fruit is Best for Blood Thinners?

Blueberries

Blueberries are packed with natural plant compounds like anthocyanins and polyphenols that support healthy blood flow. Research in people shows that eating berries can make platelets less sticky, lowering clot formation by about 11% compared to those who didn’t eat them. This makes blueberries a great natural blood thinner.

Strawberries 

Strawberries are rich in flavonoids and anthocyanins that keep blood vessels healthy and help prevent platelets from clumping together. Studies on berry intake show that people who eat them have lower platelet activity, which points to a gentle, natural blood-thinning effect.

Cranberries

Cranberries contain special compounds called proanthocyanidins that may work in a way similar to aspirin, helping slow down platelet activity. In fact, a medical case once linked cranberry intake with extra bleeding during surgery, showing its potential blood-thinning effect.

Grapes

Grapes and grape juice are rich in polyphenols like resveratrol, which support heart health and help prevent platelets from sticking together. Research on supplements and diet reviews highlights grapes as one of the fruits with proven natural antiplatelet benefits.

Cherries

Sour cherries are full of anthocyanins and flavonoids that promote healthy circulation by reducing platelet clumping. In a human study, sour cherry intake lowered platelet activity by about 40% within just a few hours, showing a quick and powerful effect.

Oranges

Oranges are loaded with vitamin C and plant compounds like hesperidin that keep blood vessels strong and may slightly reduce platelet stickiness. Reviews on citrus fruits often highlight their role in supporting heart health and offering mild natural blood-thinning benefits.

Lifestyle & Supplement Considerations

When you take blood thinners, making specific lifestyle adjustments is essential to stay safe and ensure your medication works effectively. Blood thinners help prevent harmful clots but also increase your risk of bleeding, so you need to manage diet, activities, and supplements carefully. 

Following consistent habits and consulting your healthcare provider about changes can greatly reduce complications.

Keep Vitamin K Intake Consistent 

Foods high in vitamin K (like kale, spinach, broccoli) can affect medications such as warfarin. It is important to maintain a consistent amount daily rather than avoid these foods entirely.

  • Avoid certain herbal supplements and natural products
  • Limit alcohol consumption
  • Exercise caution to prevent injuries
  • Communicate regularly with your healthcare provider

When to Consult Your Healthcare Provider

Blood thinners help prevent dangerous blood clots but carry a risk of serious bleeding. It is important to know when to contact a healthcare provider while taking blood thinners, whether these are medications or influenced by diet.

  • Seek immediate medical help for signs of serious bleeding, such as unusual bruising, prolonged bleeding, red or brown urine, black or bloody stools, or vomiting blood.
  • Call if experiencing severe headache, dizziness, weakness, or unexplained pain, especially after a fall or head injury.
  • Report any new medications, supplements, or dietary changes to your provider, as these can affect blood thinner effectiveness.
  • Notify your provider if you have any questions or concerns about symptoms, medication dosing, or side effects.
  • Regular blood tests and follow-up appointments are essential for safe management.

This cautious approach prevents complications and ensures safe treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I eat blood-thinning foods if I’m not on medication? 

Yes, incorporating natural blood-thinning foods into your diet is generally safe and beneficial for most people. These foods support overall cardiovascular health through their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

How quickly do natural blood thinners work? 

Unlike medications that work within hours, natural blood-thinning foods provide gradual benefits over weeks to months of consistent consumption. Their effects build up slowly as part of your overall dietary pattern.

Should I avoid vitamin K completely if I’m on warfarin? 

No, complete avoidance isn’t necessary or recommended. Maintaining consistent vitamin K intake allows your healthcare provider to optimize your medication dose while ensuring you get important nutrients from leafy greens and other vegetables.

Can I drink green tea while taking blood thinners? 

Green tea contains vitamin K and natural compounds that may affect blood clotting. Moderate, consistent consumption is usually fine, but discuss your tea consumption with your healthcare provider, especially if you drink large amounts.

Are frozen fruits and vegetables as effective as fresh ones?

Frozen fruits and vegetables retain most of their beneficial compounds and can be just as effective as fresh options. However, avoid products with added sugars or sodium that might counteract the cardiovascular benefits.

Conclusion

What you eat every day can quietly make a big difference in how smoothly your blood flows. The vegetables and fruits we’ve explored, like garlic, berries, and leafy greens, don’t replace medication, but they can give your heart and blood vessels steady support.

Why does that matter? Because good circulation fuels everything from your energy to your long-term heart health. Choosing foods that keep platelets less sticky and protect blood vessels is a simple way to care for yourself in the long run.

You don’t need to make big changes all at once. Start small, add an extra serving of veggies to dinner, reach for fresh fruit as a snack, or try a new spice in your cooking. And if the cost of blood thinner medication is a concern, exploring trusted pharmacies like Medications Canada can help you access safe, affordable options. Little steps like these support both your health and your budget.

While nutrient-rich foods support your circulation naturally, many people also need prescription blood thinners to manage specific health conditions. If you’ve been prescribed medications like Eliquis, Xarelto, Warfarin, Pradaxa, Heparin, Lovenox, Plavix, or Brilinta, managing your prescription costs is an important part of your health journey.

Medications Canada offers Americans access to these essential medications through licensed Canadian pharmacies—at significantly lower prices and with no dispensing fees. Whether you’re taking Eliquis for atrial fibrillation, Xarelto to prevent blood clots, Warfarin for long-term anticoagulation, Pradaxa as a newer oral anticoagulant, Heparin or Lovenox for injectable options, or antiplatelet medications like Plavix and Brilinta to prevent heart attacks and strokes, Medications Canada provides a trusted, affordable solution.

Visit Medications Canada today to learn more about how you can save on your blood thinner prescriptions while maintaining the quality care you deserve.

References

Why Is Eliquis So Expensive (And How to Get It for About $1 Per Pill)

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A smiling female doctor with a stethoscope is looking at and talking with an elderly male patient, discussing Eliquis cost or medication. The doctor is gently touching the patient's shoulders.

If you’ve ever been prescribed Eliquis, you may have experienced sticker shock at the pharmacy counter. As one of the most widely used blood thinners, Eliquis plays a crucial role in preventing strokes and blood clots. But its price can be staggering. Without insurance, a one-month supply can cost between $400 and $600, making it a financial burden for many Americans seeking care. But why is Eliquis so expensive? From patent protections and research costs to the lack of pricing regulations in the U.S., several factors contribute to its high price tag. In this article, we’ll break down the reasons behind the high cost of Eliquis and explore how you can save money on this essential medication.

What is Eliquis?

Eliquis, with the generic name apixaban, is an oral anticoagulant (blood thinner) that belongs to the drug class of Factor Xa inhibitors. It works by blocking Factor Xa, a protein necessary for blood clotting, thereby reducing the formation of clots in the blood.

What is Eliquis Used for?

Eliquis is used to reduce the risk of stroke and blood clots in people who have atrial fibrillation. It reduces the risk of forming a blood clot in the legs and lungs of people who have just had hip or knee replacement surgery. Eliquis treats blood clots in the veins of your legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism), and reduces the risk of them occurring again. 

How Much Does Eliquis Cost?

Without insurance, Eliquis may cost between $400 – $600 for a 30-day supply, depending on dosage and pharmacy location. Medicare and insurance plans may reduce costs significantly, but out-of-pocket expenses vary based on the coverage.

Is Eliquis The Most Expensive Blood Thinner?

Eliquis is among the most expensive blood thinners on the market, but it is not the absolute costliest. Blood thinners, also known as anticoagulants, are essential medications for preventing strokes, blood clots, and other cardiovascular complications. However, their pricing varies significantly depending on the brand, availability of generics, and insurance coverage.

As of 2024, the average retail price for a 30-day supply of Eliquis (5 mg, 60 tablets) in the U.S. is around $642, translating to about $10.70 per tablet. For a 168-tablet supply, the cost exceeds $1,765.52. This makes Eliquis one of the priciest options, particularly for those without insurance. Compared to older blood thinners like warfarin, which cost as little as $10 to $30 per month, the difference is staggering.

However, Eliquis is not the most expensive anticoagulant. Pradaxa (dabigatran), another direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC), can cost over $550 for a 30-day supply, while Xarelto (rivaroxaban) is priced at around $600 per month. The high cost of these medications is largely due to patent protections, research and development expenses, and the lack of widely available generics in the U.S.

Patients looking for more affordable alternatives often consider international pharmacies, where the same medications can be significantly cheaper. For example, in Canada, a 168-tablet supply of brand-name Eliquis costs around $174, nearly 90% less than in the U.S. Generic versions (apixaban) are also available in Canada and other countries at a fraction of the price. While Eliquis is undoubtedly expensive, it remains one of the most effective and widely prescribed blood thinners due to its lower risk of bleeding complications compared to warfarin. The high cost, however, continues to be a major concern for patients seeking affordable long-term treatment.

Why is the price of Eliquis so high?

The high price of Eliquis is due to several factors:

Patent protection

Eliquis has been a subject of discussion due to its high cost in the United States. One of the primary reasons for its expensive price tag is patent protection, a crucial factor in the pharmaceutical industry. Patent protection grants pharmaceutical companies exclusive rights to produce and sell their newly developed drugs for a specific period, typically around 20 years. This exclusivity allows pharmaceutical companies to recoup their substantial investments in research and development.  In the case of Eliquis, Bristol Myers Squibb and Pfizer, the drug’s manufacturers, have managed to extend their patent protection through various legal means.

Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved generic versions of Eliquis (apixaban) in 2020, the brand-name medication has maintained its patent exclusivity in the U.S. market. Thanks to successful legal challenges and settlements, Bristol Myers Squibb and Pfizer have fended off cheaper alternatives until at least 2026, with some sources indicating that generics may not enter the market until April 2028. This extended period of exclusivity has significant implications for consumers. Without generic competition, Eliquis can command a premium price in the U.S. market, often costing over $500 for a month’s supply. The lack of alternatives leaves patients and healthcare systems with limited options, contributing to the ongoing debate about prescription drug pricing in America.

Research and development costs

Developing innovative drugs involves significant investment. Research and development (R&D) costs play a significant role in the high price of Eliquis. Pharmaceutical companies often cite these expenses as a key factor in setting drug prices. The process of developing a new drug is lengthy and costly. On average, it takes 12-13 years and approximately $1.4 billion to bring a new medication to market. This substantial investment covers various stages of drug development, including early discovery, preclinical testing, and multiple phases of clinical trials. 

For Eliquis specifically, while exact figures aren’t publicly available, it’s reasonable to assume that its development followed a similar pattern of high investment. However, it’s important to note that the relationship between R&D costs and drug pricing is complex. 

While pharmaceutical companies argue that high prices are necessary to recoup their investments, critics point out that many top-selling drugs, including Eliquis, have generated revenues far exceeding their development costs. For instance, Medicare alone spent $27.2 billion on Eliquis between 2016 and 2020, which is more than ten times the average cost to develop a new drug.

Furthermore, research has shown that many pharmaceutical companies spend more on stock buybacks and dividends than on R&D. This suggests that while R&D costs are a factor in drug pricing, they are not the sole determinant.

As research continues and pricing practices evolve, the debate over the true impact of R&D costs on drug prices is likely to persist.

Lack of pricing regulations

The U.S. does not cap drug prices, allowing manufacturers to set high rates.

One of the key factors contributing to the high cost of Eliquis in the United States is the lack of pricing regulations for prescription drugs. Unlike many other developed countries, the U.S. government does not impose restrictions on how much pharmaceutical companies can charge for brand-name medications. This absence of price controls allows drug manufacturers to set prices based on what the market will bear, rather than on factors such as production costs or affordability for patients. As a result, the same medication can cost significantly more in the U.S. compared to other countries. 

The stark price difference is further exacerbated by the inability of government programs like Medicare to negotiate drug prices directly with pharmaceutical companies. This limitation, coupled with extended patent protections, enables manufacturers to maintain high prices for brand-name drugs like Eliquis without facing significant market pressures to reduce costs.

The impact of this lack of pricing regulation is profound, with many American customers struggling to afford their necessary medications. While some relief may be on the horizon, with Medicare beginning to negotiate prices for certain drugs, the current system continues to place a significant financial burden on patients and the healthcare system as a whole.

Customers without insurance – Impact?

Although generic versions of Eliquis were FDA-approved in 2020, legal disputes have delayed their availability. Current patents extend exclusivity until November 2026, meaning generics likely won’t be widely available until after this date.

The high cost of Eliquis has a significant impact on uninsured patients in the USA:

  • Financial burden: Uninsured consumers typically pay a lot more for a 30-day supply of Eliquis, depending on dosage and quantity. This high price can make it extremely difficult for patients to afford their prescribed treatment.
  • Full price payment: Uninsured consumers, with no one to negotiate on their behalf, are forced to pay full price for their medications—if they are able to afford them at all.
  • Limited access: The high cost may lead some uninsured consumers to ration their medication or forgo treatment entirely, potentially compromising their health outcomes.

The Cheapest Way to Get Eliquis

How to Pay About $1 Per Pill?

Many Americans facing high prescription drug costs have found relief through international and Canadian online pharmacies, which offer significantly lower prices on essential medications. This practice has deep roots, dating back to the early 2000s when an Ohio state senator organized bus trips across the Canadian border to help seniors access affordable prescriptions.

This trend continues today. In 2019, CBC News documented a renewed surge in Americans seeking medications north of the border. The report revealed that some physicians now directly contact Canadian pharmacies to arrange prescriptions for their patients, while those living near the Canadian border simply make the drive themselves. The convenience factor makes this option even more attractive. Rather than traveling internationally, Americans can now order their prescriptions online from home and have them delivered directly to their doorstep, combining substantial cost savings with the ease of home delivery.

You can access a Canadian pharmacy through MedicationsCanada.com to buy a 56-tablet supply of Eliquis for $63.95. Navigating prescription drug costs is always stressful and overwhelming. Our goal is to help you save money. To save money on your prescription medications, call us toll-free at +1-866-481-5817.

Opt for 90-Day Supplies

Purchasing a 90-day supply of Eliquis can further reduce costs:

  1. Lower per-pill cost: Buying in bulk often results in a lower price per tablet.
  2. Fewer pharmacy trips: This means fewer copays if you have insurance.
  3. Convenience: You’ll need to refill your prescription less frequently.

At MedicationsCanada.com, a 168-tablet supply (approximately 90 days) of Eliquis 5mg is priced at $173.95, offering even greater savings compared to smaller quantities.

By combining these two strategies, purchasing from a Canadian pharmacy and opting for a 90-day supply, you can significantly reduce your Eliquis expenses while ensuring a consistent supply of this crucial medication.

References

  1. Eliquis Prescribing Information. 2012. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/202155s012lbl.pdf
  2. Eliquis Prices, Coupons, Copay Cards & Patient Assistance. 2025. https://www.drugs.com/price-guide/eliquis
  3. Pradaxa Prices, Coupons, Copay Cards & Patient Assistance. 2025. https://www.drugs.com/price-guide/pradaxa
  4. Xarelto Prices, Coupons, Copay Cards & Patient Assistance. 2025. https://www.drugs.com/price-guide/xarelto
  5. Top 10 drugs with patents due to expire in the next five years. 2024. https://www.proclinical.com/blogs/2024-2/top-10-drugs-with-patents-due-to-expire-in-the-next-5-years
  6. Investor Statement on Eliquis Revenue Under IRA. 2024. https://www.bms.com/investor-statement-on-eliquis-revenue-under-ira.html
  7. Pharmaceutical industry profile. 2024. https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/canadian-life-science-industries/en/biopharmaceuticals-and-pharmaceuticals/pharmaceutical-industry-profile
  8. Medicare Spending on Prescription Drugs Far Outpaces Development Costs. 2022. https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/advocacy/info-2022/medicare-prescription-drug-spending.html
  9. Medicare now negotiating price of drug that costs $7,100 in US vs. $900 in Canada. 2024. https://www.cnn.com/2024/02/06/politics/medicare-drug-prices-eliquis-bernie-sanders/index.html 
  10. 6 Savings Tips for Eliquis While Its Generics Are on Hold. 2020. https://www.goodrx.com/eliquis/eliquis-generics-approved-patent-expiration-ways-to-save
  11. Paying the Price. 2006. https://pirg.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/PayingthePriceDC_0.pdf
  12. Eliquis and Cost: What You Need to Know. 2023. https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/eliquis-cost#next-steps

 

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