About this course

In patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), stroke prevention remains as one of the cornerstones of management. This is accomplished using either vitamin K antagonists or non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs). The use of NOACs has led to improved clinical outcomes in AF patients in terms of stroke prevention. This e-learning module summarizes important information health care practitioners can use and advise their patients about NOACs, including data on their efficacy and safety, their guidelines-based indications, and reversal agents available in case of NOAC-induced bleeding.

Learning outcomes

• Understand the importance of stroke prevention in patients with AF
• Learn the difference between Vitamin K antagonists and NOACS
• Identify the 4 approved NOACs and their uses based on clinical guidelines
• Learn about reversal agents available in case of NOAC-induced bleeding

Topics covered

• Introduction (stroke prevention in AF, stroke risk stratification, Vitamin K antagonists versus NOACs)
• Studies and trials on the 4 approved NOACs
• NOACs in the guidelines
• Different types of reversal agents
• Patient specific indications for using each NOAC
• Acceptability, accessibility, and affordability of NOACs