Use of direct oral anticoagulants for stroke prevention in elderly patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation

ConclusionsDOACs are at least as effective as warfarin for stroke prevention in elderly patients with NVAF. Compared with warfarin, DOACs were associated with reduced risk of intracranial hemorrhage, while some DOACs demonstrated an increase in other bleeding events (e.g., gastrointestinal). The faster onset and offset of action and fewer food and drug interactions of DOACs may be an advantage over warfarin for some patients. Implications for practiceDOACs are an alternative to warfarin with overall equivalent safety and efficacy in elderly patients with NVAF, and may be preferable for some. Stroke risk must always be balanced against potential bleeding risk when determining an optimal anticoagulation treatment plan. Patients’ needs and preferences will also impact this decision.
Source: Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners - Category: Nursing Authors: Tags: REVIEW ‐ SPONSORED Source Type: research