Abstract
Introduction: Current guidelines recommend the use of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) for the management of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in cancer patients. However, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have emerged as promising alternative for reducing VTE events. Moreover, apixaban shows a higher safety profile among DOACs. Hypothesis: This study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of apixaban versus LMWH (Enoxaparin or Dalteparin) in the treatment of venous thromboembolism in cancer patients. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in electronic databases (Pubmed, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane libraries) from inception until June 2023, using appropriate Mesh terms for ‘apixaban’, ‘LMWH’, and ‘VTE’. Pooled risk ratios (RR) with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using random effects models. A p-value of <0.005 was considered statistically significant. Results: Five randomized trials involving 2311 patients (apixaban: 1088 and LMWH: 1223) with mean ages of 64.5±11.45 and 64.2±10.8, respectively, were included in the analysis. At a median follow-up of six months, the occurrence of clinically relevant non-major bleeding (CRNMB) (OR, 1.04, 95% CI: 0.66 - 1.64, I2=37.72%, p=0.87), composite of major and CRNMB (OR, 1.11, 95% CI: 0.84 - 1.46, I2=0.00%, p=0.47), were higher with apixaban treatment. However, the rates of recurrent VTE (OR, 0.72, 95% CI: 0.50 - 1.04, I2=3.91%, p=0.08), major bleeding (OR, 0.83, 95% CI: 0.55 - 1.25, I2=0.00%, p=0.38), and mortality (OR, 0.91, 95% CI: 0.79 - 1.05, I2=0.00%, p=0.19) were lower with apixaban compared to LMWH treatment. However, none of the observed differences reached statistical significance. Conclusions: In cancer patients with VTE, apixaban demonstrates non-inferior efficacy and a comparable safety profile to LMWH. Further randomized trials are warranted to confirm these findings.
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