Xarelto vs. Eliquis: Differences and Price
Xarelto (rivaroxaban) and Eliquis (apixaban) are the two most common modern blood thinners. Both lower the risk of stroke in atrial fibrillation and treat or prevent blood clots. Here’s how they compare on dosing and on price, including what they cost from Canada.
Only your doctor can decide which blood thinner is right for you. Never switch or stop a blood thinner on your own.
How they work
Both drugs block factor Xa, a protein your blood needs to form clots. They’re often called DOACs (direct oral anticoagulants). Unlike warfarin, they don’t need regular INR blood tests or strict diet changes.
Xarelto vs. Eliquis at a glance
| Xarelto (rivaroxaban) | Eliquis (apixaban) | |
|---|---|---|
| Doses per day (atrial fibrillation) | Once a day | Twice a day |
| Take with food? | Yes, for 15 mg and 20 mg | With or without food |
| Common strengths | 10, 15, 20 mg | 2.5, 5 mg |
| Made by | Bayer (Janssen in the US) | Bristol Myers Squibb and Pfizer |
| US brand price, no insurance | About $517–805 per month | $346 per month (list) |
| From Northside Meds | From about $110 per month (15 or 20 mg, 90 tablets for $330) | $130 per month (60 tablets) |
Prices are in US dollars.
Once a day vs. twice a day
Xarelto’s once-daily dose is easier for some people to remember. Eliquis is taken twice a day, about 12 hours apart. Missing doses of any blood thinner lowers its protection, so the schedule you can stick to matters. Discuss it with your doctor.
Bleeding risk and kidney function
Both drugs raise the risk of bleeding. Doctors choose between them based on things like your kidney function, age, weight, other medicines and bleeding history. Your dose may also depend on your kidney function, so keep up with the blood tests your doctor orders.
Price: US vs. Canada
If you pay out of pocket, both are much cheaper from Canada than the US brand price:
- Eliquis: $130 for 60 tablets (one month), versus $346 in the US.
- Xarelto 15 mg or 20 mg: $330 for 90 tablets, about three months on a once-daily dose.
US generics of rivaroxaban were approved in 2025 and are gradually reaching pharmacies, so it’s worth comparing prices at your local pharmacy too. No generic Eliquis is on sale in the US yet.
How to order from Canada
- Create a free account and add your medicine to your cart.
- Upload your prescription, or have your doctor fax it to 1-833-220-2470.
- Once your prescription is verified, your order ships to your door in the US.
Keep taking your current supply until your order arrives. Questions? Call us at 1-888-234-8578.
Safety information
Blood thinners can cause serious or fatal bleeding. Get medical help right away for unusual bruising, bleeding that won’t stop, red or black stools, or coughing or vomiting blood. Stopping early raises your risk of stroke and clots. Tell your doctor about all your medicines, including aspirin and NSAIDs. This isn’t a complete list; talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
This article is for information only and is not medical advice. A valid prescription is required.