Recent developments in the use of oral anticoagulants.

For many years, vitamin K antagonists, unfractionated heparins, low-molecular-weight heparins and a pentasaccharide were the only anticoagulant drugs available for the prevention of venous thromboembolism after surgery. However, their benefits were associated with disadvantages, such as their subcutaneous route of administration or the need for coagulation monitoring. Research was challenged to develop new drugs that would simplify thromboprophylaxis while showing equivalent or better efficacy. Rivaroxaban and dabigatran are now available in some countries for the prevention of venous thromboembolism after total hip or knee replacement in adults. Apixaban is also undergoing trials for this indication. Additionally, these drugs show potential for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation, treatment of venous thromboembolism and prevention of secondary events in acute coronary syndrome.