title: [Pharmacological characteristics and check points for clinical use of anticoagulants].
abstract: In Japan, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, and apixaban are available for non-valvular atrial fibrillation. Edoxaban is now under consideration for approval. This article describes the pharmacological characteristics of these novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs) as well as warfarin. Warfarin has been widely used for more than half century, however, it is difficult to use, especially for general physicians. Warfarin has many drug and food interaction. It takes time to stabilize the effect of anticoagulation and needs regular blood tests. NOACs are rapidly effective after oral intake with shorter half life, which may be beneficial. Some concerns exists with short half life because the effect is rapidly disappeared if the patient forget to take. Adherence is very important for all patients who take any anticoagulants. NOACs are excreted by kidney, but the percentage of renal commitment differs with each drug. NOACs may be easier to use than warfarin, however, we have to notice different check points with NOACs.
authors.forename: Yukihiro
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Koretsune
mesh_terms: D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000494:pharmacology*; D000991:Antithrombins / Q000494:pharmacology*; D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000188:drug therapy*; D001777:Blood Coagulation / Q000187:drug effects*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D006801:Humans; D007564:Japan
chemical_list: D000925:Anticoagulants; D000991:Antithrombins