Key takeaways
Prasugrel (Effient) and Eliquis (apixaban) are both blood thinners, but they work differently and are used for different conditions. Prasugrel is a P2Y12 inhibitor that prevents blood clots in people who have had a stent placed after a heart attack. Eliquis on the other hand, is a direct-acting oral anticoagulant (DOAC) that blocks a clotting factor called factor Xa to prevent and treat blood clots in conditions like atrial fibrillation (Afib), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and pulmonary embolism (PE). Prasugrel is taken once daily and is available as a lower-cost generic. Eliquis is taken twice daily, and while a generic version of Eliquis has been approved, it may not be available until 2026. Prasugrel has a higher risk of bleeding and isn’t recommended for people over 75 or those with a history of stroke. Eliquis also increases bleeding risk but is considered a first-choice treatment for preventing stroke in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation and doesn’t require regular blood work. Neither medication should be stopped abruptly without consulting a healthcare professional due to the risk of serious blood clots.
