Reversal of oral factor Xa inhibitors by prothrombin complex concentrates: a re-appraisal

Oral factor Xa inhibitors are an attractive class of anticoagulants expected to have broad application. Rapid and reliable reversal of the anticoagulant effect is important for patients with bleeding complications or those in need of urgent reversal for procedures. While no specific reversal agent is yet available, multiple published clinical guidelines suggest that four-factor prothrombin complex concentrates (PCC) should be considered when urgent reversal is desired. This presentation updates prior reviews on this topic (Crit Care, 17, 2013, 230; Thromb Haemost, 111, 2014, 189; J Thromb Thrombolysis, 2015, 39, 395); and summarizes more recent evidence in human studies indicating that four-factor PCCs available in North America do not reverse oral factor Xa-inhibitor anticoagulants. New agents on the horizon appear to be far more promising as therapies for reversal or oral factor Xa inhibitors.