Liquid chromatographic methods for the determination of direct oral anticoagulant drugs in biological samples: A critical review

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are first-line drugs used for the treatment of venous thromboembolism and prevention of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. These drugs do not require the regular biochemical monitoring that is mandatory for warfarin, and they exhibit shorter half-lives and have a faster onset of action. Since recent real-world studies evidence a higher prevalence of adverse side effects than what was anticipated in clinical trials, monitoring the plasma concentrations of DOACs is being used to personalize their pharmacotherapy, in accordance to the characteristics of the patient, and to evaluate the adherence to therapy.