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Eliquis vs. Pradaxa

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Eliquis (apixaban) and Pradaxa (dabigatran) are both blood thinners used to prevent and treat blood clots, but they work in different ways. Eliquis is typically taken twice daily and has an FDA-approved generic version that may not be available until 2026. Pradaxa is also taken twice daily but doesn’t have a generic version available. Eliquis is considered a first-choice treatment for preventing stroke in people with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation and might be safer for those with kidney problems. Pradaxa, on the other hand, requires careful use in people with kidney problems and has a higher risk of stomach bleeding, especially in those over 75. Both medications can cause bleeding, but Pradaxa has an available antidote in case of emergency.

Eliquis

(apixaban)

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Dabigatran

(Pradaxa)

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Summary for Eliquis

Prescription only

Eliquis (apixaban) is an anticoagulant (blood thinner) used to prevent and treat blood clots. It can lower the risk of serious conditions like stroke, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and pulmonary embolism (PE). The medication comes as a tablet or liquid and is taken by mouth twice a day. Common side effects include bleeding and bruising. Although generic versions have been approved by the FDA, they might not be available until 2026.

Indications for Eliquis

Adults:

Children:

  • Treat blood clots and lower the risk of new clots in children from birth and older

Pros and Cons for Eliquis

Pros

  • No regular blood monitoring required
  • Can be taken with or without food
  • Approved for both children and adults

Cons

  • Need to take it twice a day
  • Most common side effect is bleeding
  • Not easily reversible in life-threatening bleeds

Common Side Effects for Eliquis

Adults:

  • Any bleeding (up to 15%)

Children:

  • Any bleeding (up to 36%)
  • Headache (16%)
  • Vomiting (14%)

Warnings for Eliquis

  • Higher risk of blood clots if stopped too early
  • Paralysis in the spine
  • Bleeding
  • Not recommended in people with prosthetic heart valves
  • Not recommended in people with antiphospholipid syndrome

Summary for Pradaxa

Prescription only

Dabigatran etexilate mesylate, also known by its brand name, Pradaxa, is a type of anticoagulant blood thinner that treats and prevents certain types of blood clots in people ages 8 years and older. It's also used to lower the risk of stroke and blood clots in people with atrial fibrillation (AFib). The dosing can differ based on why you need the medication, but it's typically taken by mouth twice a day. Side effects include stomach upset and bleeding. For people who experience serious bleeding with this medication, there's an antidote medication called Praxbind (idarucizumab) that reverses its effects.

Indications for Pradaxa

Adults:

Children 8 years and older:

  • Treating blood clots - only after receiving an injectable blood thinner
  • Lowering the risk of blood clots from happening again in children with a history of blood clots

Pros and Cons for Pradaxa

Pros

  • Good option for preventing and treating blood clots in many people
  • Doesn't require regular blood tests, frequent dose changes, or diet changes
  • Has an antidote called Praxbind for people who experience a serious bleed
  • Can be taken with or without food

Cons

  • Typically taken twice a day
  • Not for people who have atrial fibrillation with heart valve problems
  • Can cause serious bleeding and bruising
  • Common causes stomach-related side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea

Common Side Effects for Pradaxa

  • Upset stomach
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Bleeding

Warnings for Pradaxa

  • Higher risk of blood clots from stopping too early
  • Possible risk of paralysis (only in certain spinal procedures)
  • Risk of bleeding
  • Interactions with other medications
  • Not for use in people with mechanical heart valves
  • Not for use in people with antiphospholipid syndrome

Prices with our coupons for Eliquis vs. Pradaxa

Price Card Drug Icon
Eliquis60 tablets / 5mg
$346.17$784.28
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Dabigatran60 capsules / 150mg
$55.41$215.39
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