Key result
Non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants are as effective and safe as vitamin K antagonists for the management of venous thromboembolism, offering significant advantages in convenience of use.
Why the study?
Are non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants (NOACs) as effective and safe as vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) for the management of venous thromboembolism?
Are non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants (NOACs) as effective and safe as vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) for the management of venous thromboembolism?
NOACs are effective and safe alternatives to VKAs for VTE management, and anticoagulation clinics led by NPs and pharmacists can be repurposed to optimize care for patients on these agents.
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Venous thromboembolism (VTE), comprising deep-vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants (NOACs), including apixaban, betrixaban, dabigatran, edoxaban, and rivaroxaban, are as effective and safe as vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) for primary prophylaxis, treatment, and/or secondary prevention of VTE and present significant advantages in convenience of use. This review provides guidance to nurse practitioners (NPs) and pharmacists on NOAC usage for the management of VTE and examines how traditional anticoagulation clinics can adapt to cater to patients on NOACs. METHODS: A review of the scientific literature pertaining to treatment guideline recommendations, large randomized clinical trials, and real-world evidence studies related to VTE management was conducted. CONCLUSIONS: With current data suggesting that NOACs may present as better alternatives over VKAs for the management of VTE, comprehensively educating NPs and pharmacists can help incorporate these agents in their clinical practice. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Repurposing anticoagulation clinics, led by well-informed NPs and pharmacists, will allow effective integration and optimal management of patients with VTE taking NOACs as well as those taking VKAs.
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Schmerge et al. (2018) conducted a review in Venous thromboembolism (VTE). Non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants (NOACs) vs. Vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) was evaluated. Non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants are as effective and safe as vitamin K antagonists for the management of venous thromboembolism, offering significant advantages in convenience of use.
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