People with atrial fibrillation (AFib) have a higher risk for stroke compared with people who have a normal heart rhythm. Medicines that keep blood from clotting, called anticoagulants, lower the risk of stroke but can also cause serious bleeding. A recent review of research found that some newer anticoagulants do better at reducing the risk of stroke, and some also reduce the risk of serious bleeding compared to traditional therapies. Updates for clinicians and patients summarizing the findings, presented collaboratively by PCORI, the Alliance for Aging Research, the Arrhythmia Alliance, and the AF Association, are now available.

Evidence Update for Patients

Evidence Update for Clinicians