Keywords
Deep vein thrombosis
Clinical trials
Therapeutic safety
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Abstract
Objective: To analyze the efficacy and safety of anticoagulants in the treatment and prevention of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, based on clinical trials published in English and Portuguese. Methods: This is a narrative literature review that included randomized clinical trials available in scientific databases, addressing the use of different classes of anticoagulants, such as low molecular weight heparin, vitamin K antagonists, and direct oral anticoagulants, in patients diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Results: The analyzed studies showed that direct oral anticoagulants, such as rivaroxaban, apixaban, and dabigatran, demonstrated similar efficacy to warfarin, with a lower incidence of major bleeding. Low molecular weight heparins and fondaparinux showed good results in the initial treatment phase, especially in postoperative patients. The use of clinical scores, such as HAS-BLED and Villalta, assisted in assessing bleeding risk and preventing post-thrombotic syndrome. Final considerations: Anticoagulants have demonstrated efficacy and safety in the management of venous thrombosis, with direct oral agents emerging as a promising alternative due to their practicality and lower hemorrhagic risk.
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