Xarelto vs. Eliquis: Comparing Two Leading Anticoagulants
Xarelto and Eliquis are two prominent anticoagulant medications used primarily to prevent and treat blood clots. Understanding the key differences between these medications can help patients and healthcare providers choose the most appropriate treatment option.
Xarelto vs. Eliquis
Xarelto and Eliquis are classified as direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). They work by inhibiting Factor Xa, a crucial component of the blood clotting process. Both drugs are commonly prescribed to prevent stroke and systemic embolism in individuals with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF), as well as for the treatment and prevention of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).
Efficacy Comparison Between Xarelto and Eliquis
Various clinical studies have been conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of Xarelto and Eliquis in preventing stroke and systemic embolism in patients with NVAF. The findings suggest that both medications are equally proficient in reducing the risk of stroke and systemic embolism, although Eliquis tends to have a lower incidence of major bleeding events.
For the treatment and prevention of DVT and PE, both Xarelto and Eliquis have proven to be effective. One particular study demonstrated that Xarelto is non-inferior to the standard treatment involving enoxaparin and a vitamin K antagonist for DVT. Similarly, Eliquis has been shown to be as effective as enoxaparin followed by warfarin in treating DVT and PE.
Safety of Xarelto and Eliquis
Both Xarelto and Eliquis carry a risk of bleeding, a common complication associated with all anticoagulants. Although the overall bleeding risk is relatively low, patients should monitor for any signs of bleeding and seek immediate medical help if unusual symptoms occur.
In terms of side effects, Xarelto is more frequently linked to gastrointestinal bleeding, whereas Eliquis is more likely to cause dyspepsia (indigestion) and nausea. Certain health conditions or risk factors can increase a patient’s vulnerability to these side effects.
Cost Comparison Between Xarelto and Eliquis
When it comes to pricing, Xarelto costs $189.99 for 50 tablets of 10mg, $289.89 for 90 tablets of 15mg, and $289.89 for 90 tablets of 20mg. On the other hand, Eliquis costs $119.99 for 180 tablets of either 2.5mg or 5mg.
Choosing Between Xarelto and Eliquis
Selecting between Xarelto and Eliquis involves considering several factors, including the patient’s age, kidney function, and other medical conditions. Physicians also consider their own preferences and clinical practice guidelines. Patients should discuss these considerations with their healthcare provider to determine the most suitable medication for their specific needs.
Both Xarelto and Eliquis are powerful anticoagulants capable of preventing and treating blood clots. While they share many similarities, there are important differences in terms of efficacy, safety, cost, and availability. By understanding these differences, patients and healthcare providers can make informed decisions about the best treatment option.