Table I.
Main characteristics of the direct oral anticoagulants currently licensed in Western countries.
| Drug | Dosage to be prescribed (mg) | Cleared from circulation by | Time to peak after intake | Time to trough after intake |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dabigatran | a150 or 110 b.d. | Kidney (80%) | Approx. 2 h | Approx. 12 h |
| Rivaroxaban | b20 or 15 o.d. | Kidney (33%) and/or liver | Approx. 2 h | Approx. 24 h |
| Apixaban | c5 or 2.5 b.d. | Kidney (27%) and/or liver | Approx. 2 h | Approx. 12 h |
| Edoxaban | 30 or 60 o.d. | Kidney (50%) and/or liver | Approx. 2 h | Approx. 24 h |
a
In the USA the lower dose to be prescribed is 75 mg b.d.;
b
15 mg b.d. in the first 3 weeks for treatment of venous thromboembolism;
c
10 mg b.d. in the first week for treatment of venous thromboembolism; b.d.: twice daily; o.d.: once daily.