What anticoagulants are used clinically?

Clinically, the most commonly used anticoagulants include warfarin, which is a vitamin K antagonist, and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) such as rivaroxaban, apixaban, edoxaban, and dabigatran. Heparin and its low molecular weight derivatives, such as enoxaparin and dalteparin, are also widely used, particularly in hospital settings for immediate anticoagulation. These medications help prevent and treat thromboembolic disorders by inhibiting various components of the coagulation cascade. The choice of anticoagulant often depends on the specific clinical scenario, patient characteristics, and risk factors.