Expert Opinion on the Usage of Novel Oral Anticoagulants in Clinical Conditions in Indian Settings

Abstract

Objective: The current survey-based study aims to better understand expert opinion on the most commonly prescribed anticoagulants in clinical practice, with a special focus on the use of dabigatran in real-time clinical practice in an Indian setting. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted to examine the viewpoints of 183 experts from various regions in India regarding the use of dabigatran. The survey consisted of 16 questions to obtain expert responses regarding the usage of dabigatran in clinical practice. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The study gathered responses from 183 clinicians. The majority of the clinicians (72%) recommended dabigatran as the most preferred anticoagulant. Approximately 76% of respondents recommended dabigatran for atrial fibrillation (AF). Dabigatran was identified as the most commonly recommended medication for both pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) by 69% of the respondents.  The respondents also preferred the drug for managing other clinical conditions such as ischemic stroke and prophylaxis in hip replacement surgery. More than half (64%) of the respondents reported dabigatran to be more effective than rivaroxaban and apixaban. Conclusion: Dabigatran emerged as the preferred anticoagulant in clinical practice. Dabigatran, among the anticoagulants, can be a top choice in AF, PE, DVT, ischemic stroke, and hip replacement surgery as therapy and prophylaxis.