[Anticoagulation-direct oral anticoagulants]

Since direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) have become available, use of anticoagulant treatment has become easier and safer-for patients suffering from thromboembolic diseases as well as for patients with atrial fibrillation: Because of constant bioavailability, fixed dose regimen treatment is possible, monitoring not necessary and severe bleeding complications-particularly intracranial hemorrhages-rare in comparison to vitamin K anticoagulants. To gain all these advantages, it is essential to give DOAC in the correct dosage. Dose reduction of single DOAC has to be considered depending on underlying disease, body weight and renal function. DOAC are not allowed in patients with artificial heart valves, in pregnancy and in children. In case of severe bleeding complications under DOAC treatment, prothrombin complex concentrates is one treatment option. For dabigatran an antidote is available.