FDA greenlights first generics of blood thinner

Eliquis (apixaban) is an anticoagulant used for the treatment of blood clots and prevention of stroke in people with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, marketed by Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer. Indications of the drug product also include the prevention and treatment of deep vein thrombosis, which may lead to pulmonary embolism, in patients who have undergone hip or knee replacement surgery. ​A blockbuster drug,​, Eliquis brought BMS sales of over $5.9bn (€5.2bn) in the first three quarters of 2019. The approved generic versions are not projected to enter the market soon, as Eliquis is protected by patent until 2026.During a Q3 earnings conference call, Giovanni Caforio, BMS’ CEO, commented that the company has reached settlements with over 20 other developers of apixaban, however.