Direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs)

Definition

Direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are medications that inhibit specific clotting factors to prevent blood clots. They are used to treat and prevent thromboembolic disorders without the need for routine blood monitoring.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. DOACs target specific clotting factors such as Factor Xa or thrombin.
2. Common DOACs include dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban, and edoxaban.
3. They have a rapid onset of action and shorter half-lives compared to warfarin.
4. DOACs do not require regular INR monitoring like warfarin does.
5. Reversal agents are available for some DOACs in case of severe bleeding.

Review Questions

• What are the advantages of DOACs over traditional anticoagulants like warfarin?
• Name two common direct-acting oral anticoagulants and the clotting factors they inhibit.
• Why is routine blood monitoring not necessary for patients on DOACs?

Related terms

Warfarin: An older anticoagulant that requires frequent blood tests to monitor INR levels.

Heparin: An injectable anticoagulant used for immediate anticoagulation effects.

Thrombin Inhibitors: A class of drugs that directly inhibit thrombin, a key enzyme in the coagulation process.