Stop Calling Around — There's a Better Way to Find Apixaban

If you've ever tried to fill a prescription for Apixaban (brand name Eliquis) and been told it's out of stock, you know how frustrating it is. Calling pharmacy after pharmacy wastes time — especially when you're on a medication that shouldn't be interrupted. Apixaban carries a boxed warning about the increased risk of blood clots and stroke if you stop taking it prematurely.

The good news: in 2026, there are several ways to check pharmacy stock online without picking up the phone. Here's how.

Why Is Apixaban Sometimes Hard to Find?

Since generic Apixaban launched in late 2024 following patent settlements, the market has been adjusting. Multiple generic manufacturers entered at once, and pharmacies have been switching between suppliers. This created intermittent stock gaps — not a true shortage, but enough to leave some patients scrambling.

As of early 2026, supply is stabilizing, but certain formulations or generic manufacturers may still be temporarily unavailable at specific pharmacies. For more background, read our Apixaban shortage update for 2026.

How to Check Stock Without Calling

1. Use Medfinder

Medfinder was built for exactly this problem. Enter your medication and zip code, and Medfinder shows you which pharmacies near you currently have Apixaban in stock. No account required, no phone calls needed.

This is the fastest way to find availability, especially if your usual pharmacy is out and you need to locate a nearby alternative quickly.

2. Check Pharmacy Chain Apps and Websites

Several major pharmacy chains let you check medication availability or transfer prescriptions online:

• CVS — The CVS app and website allow you to search for medications and check if they can be filled at a specific location. You can also request a prescription transfer digitally.
• Walgreens — Walgreens' app shows prescription status and lets you transfer prescriptions between locations. You can also chat with a pharmacist through the app.
• Walmart — Walmart's pharmacy tool lets you price-check and view availability at stores near you.
• Rite Aid — Their online pharmacy portal supports prescription management and transfers.

Keep in mind that not all pharmacy apps show real-time stock levels for every medication. Some only confirm availability after your prescription is submitted for processing.

3. Use GoodRx to Compare Prices and Locate Pharmacies

While GoodRx is primarily known as a prescription discount tool, it also shows which pharmacies near you carry a specific medication and what price you'd pay with a coupon. Search for "Apixaban" on GoodRx, enter your zip code, and browse results by pharmacy. If a pharmacy shows a price, it typically has the medication available or can order it.

4. Try Cost Plus Drugs or Online Pharmacies

If local pharmacies are out of stock, online pharmacies can be an alternative. Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs, Amazon Pharmacy, and Honeybee Health offer generic medications shipped to your door, often at competitive prices. Shipping usually takes 3-5 business days, so this works best if you can plan ahead.

Just make sure to have your doctor send the prescription to the online pharmacy, or request a transfer from your current pharmacy.

If You Prefer to Call

Sometimes a quick phone call is the easiest option. Here are tips to make it efficient:

• Call the pharmacy, not the store. Ask to be connected directly to the pharmacy department.
• Be specific. Ask for "generic Apixaban 5 mg tablets" (or 2.5 mg, depending on your dose) rather than just "Eliquis." Some pharmacies may have the generic but not the brand, or vice versa.
• Ask about timing. If they're currently out, ask when their next delivery is expected. Many pharmacies receive shipments 2-3 times per week.
• Ask if they can order it. Even if it's not on the shelf, a pharmacy can often order it from their wholesaler for next-day delivery.

Once You Find It in Stock

After you locate a pharmacy with Apixaban available, here's how to act quickly:

Transfer Your Prescription

You don't need to go back to your doctor for a new prescription. In most states, you can call the new pharmacy and ask them to transfer your existing prescription from your current pharmacy. Many pharmacy apps also let you do this digitally.

Save Money While You're at It

If you're paying out of pocket, generic Apixaban costs $30–$80 per month — a huge savings compared to $500–$600 per month for brand-name Eliquis. You may also qualify for additional savings through discount cards or patient assistance programs. Check our guide to saving money on Apixaban for details.

Don't Go Without Your Medication

Remember: Apixaban should not be stopped abruptly. If you're running low and can't find it, talk to your doctor about a bridge plan. In some cases, they may provide samples or suggest a temporary alternative. For more on alternatives, see Alternatives to Apixaban.

Final Thoughts

Checking pharmacy stock for Apixaban doesn't have to mean hours on the phone. Tools like Medfinder make it easy to find where your medication is available near you in seconds. If your local pharmacy is out, you have options — from digital prescription transfers to online pharmacies that deliver to your door.

The most important thing is that you don't skip doses. Apixaban works best when taken consistently, twice daily, and stopping it without medical guidance can put you at serious risk.