In a move that promises significant relief for New Jersey patients facing high prescription costs, Princeton-based pharmaceutical giant Bristol Myers Squibb, in alliance with Pfizer, announced a new partnership today with the Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company.
The collaboration will make Eliquis® (apixaban), the nation’s most prescribed oral blood thinner, available via the Cost Plus Drugs online platform starting April 27.
For many New Jersey residents—particularly those paying out-of-pocket or with high-deductible plans—the cost of life-saving medication has long been a barrier. Under this new agreement, cash-paying patients with a valid prescription can purchase a 30-day supply of Eliquis for $345.
While still a significant expense, the move aims to strip away the complex layers of pharmacy benefit managers and “middleman” markups that typically inflate drug prices.
“This new collaboration is grounded in a shared commitment to transparency and offers another meaningful solution to overcome access barriers,” Adam Lenkowsky, chief commercial officer at Bristol Myers Squibb’s Princeton headquarters said.
Eliquis is a critical treatment used to reduce the risk of stroke and blood clots in patients with AFib (atrial fibrillation) and to treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
The BMS-Pfizer Alliance estimates that for every 100,000 patients treated with the medication, approximately $3 billion in healthcare costs are saved by avoiding hospitalizations and extended rehabilitation. By increasing access through Mark Cuban’s platform, the companies hope to ensure more patients can remain compliant with their life-saving regimens.
The move follows a 2025 initiative where the BMS-Pfizer Alliance launched its own direct-to-patient resource, Eliquis 360 Support. Mark Cuban, co-founder of Cost Plus Drugs, noted that Eliquis has been one of the most requested medications from consumers seeking price transparency.
“People shouldn’t have to guess what they’re going to pay for a medication they depend on,” Cuban said.
- Do Not Stop Taking Eliquis without talking to your doctor. Stopping the medication increases the risk of stroke.
- Bleeding Risk: Eliquis can cause serious, sometimes fatal, bleeding. Patients should report any unusual bruising or bleeding to their healthcare provider immediately.
- Surgery: The medication may need to be stopped temporarily before certain medical or dental procedures.
- Interaction: Inform your doctor if you take aspirin, NSAIDs (like ibuprofen), or other blood thinners.
