Safety and Effectiveness of Direct Oral Anticoagulants Versus Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin for Cancer-Associated Thrombosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
Drug SafJun 15, 2026 (epub)
Wei Kang, Bowie P Y Lam, Rinko Tsz Lam Lau et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis compared the safety and effectiveness of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) versus low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) in patients with cancer-associated thrombosis. Analyzing data from 49,824 patients, the study found that DOACs were associated with a lower incidence of venous thromboembolism recurrence (RR 0.66) compared to LMWH, with no significant difference in all-cause mortality.
Key findings
- DOACs showed a lower incidence of venous thromboembolism recurrence compared to LMWH (RR 0.66).
- Cohort studies indicated a lower risk of all-cause mortality with DOACs (RR 0.47).
- Randomized trials reported a non-significant increase in major bleeding with DOACs (RR 1.28).
Why it matters
Understanding the comparative effectiveness and safety of anticoagulants in cancer-associated thrombosis is crucial for optimizing patient management and improving outcomes in this high-risk population.