Last updated: February 24, 2026
What is NDC 00228-3086?
NDC 00228-3086 corresponds to Eliquis (apixaban) 2.5 mg tablets. Eliquis is an oral anticoagulant used primarily for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation, treatment, and prevention of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).
Market Overview
Product Positioning
Eliquis holds a significant share within the anticoagulant market, competing mainly with Xarelto (rivaroxaban) and Janssen’s Pradaxa (dabigatran). Its approval in multiple indications across broad patient populations has driven widespread adoption.
Sales and Market Share
- In 2022, Eliquis generated approximately $8.5 billion in U.S. sales, representing nearly 50% of the oral anticoagulant market share (IQVIA, 2023).
- The drug benefits from a diversified patent portfolio, including late-stage patent extensions and formulations.
Competitive Landscape
| Drug Name |
Market Share (2022) |
Price Range (per unit) |
Key Indication |
| Eliquis (apixaban) |
50% |
$4.90 - $5.10 |
Atrial fibrillation, DVT, PE |
| Xarelto (rivaroxaban) |
25% |
$3.70 - $4.20 |
Same as Eliquis |
| Pradaxa (dabigatran) |
15% |
$6.00 - $6.50 |
Same as Eliquis |
| Others |
10% |
Varies |
VTE, post-surgical prophylaxis |
Pricing & Reimbursement
- Wholesale acquisition cost (WAC): ~$4.70 per tablet.
- Average out-of-pocket cost (post-insurance): ~$3.50.
- Reimbursement policies favor Eliquis due to favorable guidelines and physician preference.
Patent Status and Competition
- Original patents expired in the U.S. in 2026.
- Patent litigations and extensions temporarily delayed generic entry.
- Several biosimilar and generic versions are expected to enter the market within the next 24-36 months, targeting a price reduction of 50-70%.
Market Drivers and Barriers
Drivers
- Increasing prevalence of atrial fibrillation, DVT, PE.
- Broad label expansion and inclusion in guidelines.
- Payer shift favoring Eliquis due to clinical efficacy and safety profile (reduced bleeding risk).
Barriers
- Cost of branded drug remains high relative to generics.
- Patent expirations catalyzing new generics increases competition.
- Prescriber loyalty to established agents, especially in hospital settings.
Price Projections (2023-2028)
Short-Term Projections (2023-2024)
- Price stability expected for branded Eliquis, supported by patent litigation and limited generic supply.
- Slight decline in premium pricing due to increased generic availability; projected decrease of 10-15%.
Mid-Term Projections (2025-2026)
- As patents expire and generics flood the market, the average price per tablet is expected to decline sharply.
- Entry of first generic versions could reduce the price by approximately 50-60%, targeting a wholesale price of ~$2.20 - $2.50 per tablet.
Long-Term Projections (2027-2028)
- Further price reductions as multiple generics compete, likely establishing a stable price band at $1.50 - $2.00 per tablet.
- Market share for branded Eliquis could decline to 25-30% without new indications or formulation innovations.
Revenue Impact
| Year |
Estimated U.S. Sales |
Branded Market Share |
Potential Generic Market Share |
Price per Tablet |
Revenue Projection (USD) |
| 2023 |
$8.5 billion |
90% |
10% |
$4.90 |
$7.65 billion |
| 2024 |
$8.0 billion |
80% |
20% |
$4.50 |
$6.40 billion |
| 2025 |
$6.5 billion |
50% |
50% |
$2.50 |
$3.25 billion |
| 2026 |
$4.0 billion |
25% |
75% |
$2.00 |
$1.00 billion |
| 2027 |
$2.5 billion |
20% |
80% |
$1.75 |
$0.5 billion |
Note: These estimates assume no major regulatory delays or unforeseen patent litigation outcomes.
Key Takeaways
- Eliquis (NDC 00228-3086) is a leading anticoagulant with strong market penetration.
- Market share is at risk due to patent expiration scheduled for 2026 and increasing generic competition.
- Short-term pricing remains stable, but significant declines are projected post-patent expiry.
- Revenue forecasts indicate a steep decline in brand sales if generic entry proceeds as anticipated.
- Future growth may depend on new indications, formulation improvements, or biosimilars.
FAQs
1. When will generic versions of Eliquis become available?
Generic Eliquis is expected to enter the market in the U.S. around late 2026, following patent expirations and resolution of litigation.
2. How much will the price of Eliquis decline upon generic entry?
Prices could decrease by 50-60%, with reduced wholesale costs and insurance premiums.
3. What factors could delay generic market entry?
Patent litigation, regulatory challenges, or extended exclusivity rights could delay generic approvals.
4. Will Eliquis maintain market share after patent expiry?
Market share will likely decline significantly unless new indications or formulations are introduced.
5. What is the impact on healthcare costs?
Increased generic competition will reduce overall healthcare expenditure for anticoagulant therapy.
References
[1] IQVIA. (2023). Pharmaceutical Market Reports.
[2] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021). Patent and Exclusivity Data.
[3] EvaluatePharma. (2022). Anticoagulant Market Forecasts.
