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However, guidelines also recommend off-label use of PCCs for DOAC reversal when specific reversal agents are unavailable. In general, available guidelines are consistent in their recommendations, advocating administration of vitamin K and 4-factor prothrombin complex concentrates (4F-PCCs) rather than fresh frozen plasma to patients with VKA-associated intracranial hemorrhage and life-threatening bleeding, and specific reversal agents as essential therapy for DOAC reversal in those same severe conditions. We appraise the available guidelines/recommendations for vitamin K antagonist (VKA) and direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) reversal in the management of major bleeding, and also assess recent clinical data that may not yet be reflected in official guidance.
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The decision to reverse anticoagulation should weigh the benefit–risk ratio of supporting hemostasis versus post-reversal thrombosis. The primary complication of anticoagulation is serious or life-threatening hemorrhage, which may necessitate prompt anticoagulation reversal this could also be required for nonbleeding patients requiring urgent/emergent invasive procedures. Anticoagulation is key to the treatment/prevention of thromboembolic events.
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