Novel oral anticoagulants: What dermatologists need to know

The development of novel oral anticoagulants provides clinicians and patients a welcome alternative to the challenges of warfarin therapy. Dermatologists must be aware of the potential impact of novel oral anticoagulants on their surgical and medical practice. This review provides a concise summary of the novel oral anticoagulants for dermatologists with particular emphasis on: (1) the pharmacokinetic properties of these drugs and how they differ from warfarin, (2) suggested management during cutaneous surgery, (3) adverse drug interactions with commonly prescribed medications in dermatology, and (4) potential use within dermatology for treatment of disorders of cutaneous thrombosis.