Optimizing Pharmacotherapy for Direct Oral Anticoagulants in Older Adults: Strategies for Managing Drug Interactions

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have been increasingly used by older adults. Although these medications offer several therapeutic advantages over traditional anticoagulants, such as warfarin, they have limitations. One significant concern associated with DOACs is their potential for drug-drug interactions. These interactions may compromise the safe and effective use of DOACs and can potentially lead to serious adverse events and complications, particularly major bleeding. Polypharmacy is common among older adults with chronic diseases, which can increase the risk of drug-drug interactions with DOACs. The current article discusses the impact and risks of drug-drug interactions with DOACs in the context of older adults and explores ways to improve and manage these interactions through the collaboration of an interprofessional team. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 49(9), 7-13.].