Direct Factor Xa Inhibitors - How do they work? (Pharmacology, Indications, Side effects)

Rivaroxaban and apixaban are direct-acting oral anticoagulant (DOACs). All direct Factor Xa inhibitors have suffix "-xaban" in their name, they were previously called NOACs.

They directly blocks Factor Xa, they have very quick onset. They are very convenient for long-term anticoagulation in patients with AF or VTE. Their efficacy is predictable and we do not need routine blood tests.

We have to check the renal function, as these drugs are partially eliminated by the kidneys. So, dosage adjustment is needed in patients with poor renal function.

As any other anticoagulants, there is a risk of bleeding. Here, we can use andexanet for acute major bleeding associated with direct Factor Xa inhibitors.

0:00 Introduction
0:37 Coagulation cascade
1:23 Mechanism of action
1:50 Why are they called DOACs?
3:01 Indication
4:33 Dosing and dose adjustment
7:14 Side effects

#thingyansane #pharmacology #anticoagulant