New oral anticoagulants: their role in stroke prevention in high-risk patients with atrial fibrillation.

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Based on efficacy, safety, and ease of use, novel oral anticoagulants will likely replace VKAs for many if not most patients with atrial fibrillation. Novel anticoagulants have a lower rate of intracranial hemorrhage compared with vitamin K antagonists. The incidence of other life-threatening bleeds is similar if not lower. Dose adjustments need to be made based on renal function and advanced age. There is at present a need for an antidote for these new drugs.