Reversal of Apixaban and Rivaroxaban Using Activated Prothrombin Complex Concentrates in Patients with Major Bleeding

Clinical experience with using activated prothrombin complex concentrates (aPCCs) to reverse the effects of factor Xa inhibitors is limited.

Our objective was to assess the achievement of effective clinical hemostasis using aPCC in patients on chronic apixaban or rivaroxaban therapy presenting with major bleeding in whom a reversal agent is warranted. We also assessed the safety of the drug.

A retrospective medical records review was conducted at a tertiary referral medical center in the USA. Patients presenting with major bleeding while receiving apixaban or rivaroxaban and treated with aPCC were included. Clinical hemostasis was assessed using International Society of Thrombosis and Hemostasis Scientific and Standardization Subcommittee criteria.

A total of 35 patients were included in the study. The most common site of bleeding was intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) (n = 18 [51.4%]), followed by gastrointestinal bleed (n = 10 [28.6%]). Clinical hemostasis was achieved in 24 (68.6%) patients; 11 patients (31.4%) did not achieve clinical hemostasis; nine of these patients had ICH. Seven of the patients who did not achieve hemostasis died during hospitalization. Three (8.6%) patients experienced thromboembolic events during hospitalization. In total, 21 (60%) patients were receiving concomitant medications that interact with anti-factor Xa inhibitors and can increase the risk of bleeding.

Our study suggests that aPCC could be an option in patients with major bleeding associated with apixaban or rivaroxaban. It may be an alternative for patients who need anticoagulation reversal if the specific antidote, andexanet alfa, is unavailable.