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Updated: Mar 31, 2026

Rapid Point-of-Care Assay of Enoxaparin Anticoagulant Efficacy in Whole Blood
Published on: October 12, 2012
A Probable Life-Saving Switch from Apixaban to Phenprocoumon.
Claudia Stöllberger1, Josef Finsterer2
1Krankenanstalt Rudolfstiftung, Wien,. claudia.stoellberger@chello.at.
Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) like apixaban pose risks in elderly patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and comorbidities. Switching to warfarin (a vitamin-K antagonist) was life-saving in a case of aortic aneurysm rupture.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are increasingly used for atrial fibrillation (AF), but their use in elderly patients with comorbidities requires careful consideration.
- Uncertainties exist regarding DOAC dosage, safety in chronic kidney disease, drug interactions, monitoring, and antidote availability.
- This case highlights potential risks associated with DOACs in a complex patient profile.
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