New oral anticoagulants in development: potential for improved safety profiles.

Article Details

Citation
Copy to clipboard

Bauer KA

New oral anticoagulants in development: potential for improved safety profiles.

Rev Neurol Dis. 2010;7(1):1-8.

PubMed ID
20410856 [ View in PubMed
]
Abstract

Venous thromboembolism is the most frequent preventable cause of death in hospitalized patients. Currently available anticoagulants have limitations that restrict their widespread use, particularly in long-term indications. Vitamin K antagonists require frequent monitoring and dose adjustment, and have a narrow therapeutic window with the risk of bleeding. The low-molecular-weight heparins have more predictable pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, and coagulation monitoring is not required. However, their subcutaneous administration limits their suitability for long-term use. Consequently, many patients fail to receive effective preventive therapy. Rivaroxaban, apixaban, and dabigatran are new anticoagulants in late-stage clinical development that inhibit a single, specific coagulation factor, unlike the Vitamin K antagonists and low-molecular-weight heparins. Studies suggest that they provide effective, predictable anticoagulation with a low bleeding risk and will potentially offer an improved clinical profile and wider safety margin compared with currently available therapies.

DrugBank Data that Cites this Article

Drugs