Nature reviews. Cardiology
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Warfarin reduces the risk of stroke in atrial fibrillation by around 60%, while antiplatelet therapy is much less effective. Bleeding is, however, a notable adverse effect with warfarin. Another major drawback of warfarin is the need for frequent clotting assessment. ⋯ These new agents for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation are being investigated in ongoing phase III trials. In one of these trials an oral thrombin blocker has so far shown superiority to warfarin in efficacy and safety. In this Review, I address the potential of modern oral anticoagulants to improve stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation.