Alternative Anticoagulants Gaining in Popularity

The first DOAC was approved for stroke prevention in AFib in October 2010. Until that time, the only option was warfarin. Although this old standby is highly effective, its dose must be raised gradually, and patients must undergo regular testing to ensure they maintain enough anticoagulant to prevent clots without incurring unwanted bleeding. They must also eliminate a long list of vitamin K-containing vegetables and fruits from their diet.