Direct thrombin inhibitors: novel antithrombotics on the horizon in the thromboprophylactic management of atrial fibrillation.
Antithrombotic agents have verified efficacy in reducing the thromboembolic risk associated with atrial fibrillation. This article focuses on the emergence of a new oral direct thrombin inhibitor, ximelagatran, into the arena of atrial fibrillation thromboprophylaxis. This review does not cover atrial fibrillation in the context of valvular heart disease. The efficacy of aspirin and warfarin will be discussed briefly.
Katira
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Department of Cardiology, Victoria Hospital, Whinney Heys Road, Blackpool FY3 8NR, UK. Ravish@katira.wanadoo.co.uk
Chauhan
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D000284:Administration, Oral; D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D001241:Aspirin / Q000008:administration & dosage; D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000150:complications*; D001384:Azetidines / Q000008:administration & dosage; D001596:Benzylamines; D056486:Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury; D017326:Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic; D006801:Humans; D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / Q000008:administration & dosage; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D012307:Risk Factors; D020521:Stroke / Q000517:prevention & control; D013917:Thrombin / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors*; D013923:Thromboembolism / Q000517:prevention & control*; D014859:Warfarin / Q000008:administration & dosage
D000925:Anticoagulants; D001384:Azetidines; D001596:Benzylamines; D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors; C426686:ximelagatran; D014859:Warfarin; D013917:Thrombin; D001241:Aspirin