Predictors of Direct Oral Anticoagulant Use in Northern Italy: A Population-Based Study

Evidence on head-to-head comparison between direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) is lacking, and the reasons for choosing one type of DOAC and switching from one DOAC to another are scarce. This study investigated the use of DOACs in an unselected population in Northern Italy during a recent period.

Using the health administrative database of the Lombardy region, subjects aged 45 years and older who started DOAC therapy between 2019 and 2022 were included in the analysis. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate predictors associated with DOAC prescription, and results were presented as ORs with 95% CI. DOAC switching was assessed by estimating the prevalence and cumulative incidence according to the first prescribed DOAC.

Overall, 159 993 new users for DOAC were identified. Apixaban users increased from 29.0% to 34.3%, whereas dabigatran users decreased from 20.7% to 11.5% over time. Across all pair-wise comparisons, older age and female sex were predictors for edoxaban prescription. Comorbidities were mainly associated with the use of apixaban; however, dabigatran was preferred in patients with a history of ischemic heart disease or myocardial infarction and rivaroxaban in those with peripheral artery disease. Both apixaban and edoxaban were preferentially prescribed to patients with a history of bleeding. The switching rate of DOACs was 5.6% with apixaban as the most preferred drug as a second choice. Dabigatran was mainly chosen as a second DOAC after a vascular ischaemic event.

Given the lack of evidence on factors influencing clinician behavior in the use of DOACs, our findings provide insight into this topic in a real-world setting. As the use of these agents increases, further evidence is needed to better explore this issue. Our data could contribute to the development of recommendations in clinical practice.