July 17 (Reuters) - US drugmakers Bristol Myers

and Pfizer ( PFE ) said on Thursday that they will make their

blood thinner, Eliquis, available directly to cash-paying

patients at discounted rate through a new program.

Eligible patients will be able to buy the drug directly

through the Eliquis 360 Support program from September 8 at a

rate that is more than 40% lower than the current list price.

"Eliquis is the nation's number one prescribed oral

anticoagulant that provides important benefits to patients and

the healthcare system," said Bristol Myers CEO Christopher

Boerner.

"This program passes more savings directly to patients."

Since its launch, Eliquis has been prescribed to over 15

million Americans and in 2024 it generated about $11.4 billion

in global revenue.