March 2016

Approved alternatives to Coumadin (collectively known as NOACs) for anticoagulation in the setting of atrial fibrillation include dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban, and edoxaban. When compared to warfarin they have all been at least as effective at reducing the risk of stroke and blood clots and are associated with similar or lower bleeding complications. There is little disagreement that adults should undergo cholesterol screening. The question of if and when to screen children has been more contentious.