Question

A 64-year-old man presents for a medication change. He has a history of non-valvular atrial fibrillation and has been on anticoagulation therapy with warfarin for the past 3 years, but he has had difficulty maintaining his INR in the therapeutic range. After thorough counseling and assessment, he is considering another oral anticoagulant medication that has a reversal antidote in case he develops life-threatening bleeding.

What agent is most appropriate in this patient?

Answer 1

Dabigatran (Pradaxa) is the most appropriate oral anticoagulant medication for the 64-year-old man because it has a reversal antidote in case of life-threatening bleeding.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate oral anticoagulant medication for the 64-year-old man would be Dabigatran (Pradaxa). Dabigatran is an effective option for anticoagulation therapy in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, and it has a reversal antidote called idarucizumab, which can be used in case of life-threatening bleeding. Unlike warfarin, Dabigatran does not require routine monitoring of INR levels, making it easier to manage for patients who struggle with maintaining therapeutic range.