Factor XI inhibitors — a breakthrough in prevention and treatment of thromboembolic disorders

Available pharmacological antithrombotic prophylaxis is associated with a low but noticeable risk of bleeding. Hence, there is an ongoing search for effective antithrombotic medications which do not significantly increase bleeding risk. Factor XI inhibitors seem to fulfil these requirements. Results of presently available randomized clinical trials on the use of factor XI inhibitors in venous thromboembolism prophylaxis and prevention of arterial thrombosis are presented.