What class of medication is Edoxaban (Savaysa)?

Edoxaban, marketed under the name Savaysa, belongs to the class of medications known as Factor Xa inhibitors. This class of anticoagulants works by directly inhibiting Factor Xa, an essential enzyme in the coagulation cascade that, when activated, leads to the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin. By preventing this conversion, Edoxaban ultimately reduces thrombin production, which decreases the formation of fibrin clots.

Factor Xa inhibitors, like Edoxaban, are used to reduce the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, as well as for the treatment and prevention of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. This mechanism allows for effective anticoagulation without the need for routine monitoring associated with other anticoagulants, making it a convenient option for many patients.

In contrast, direct thrombin inhibitors function by directly inhibiting thrombin itself, vitamin K antagonists work by inhibiting the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, and antiplatelet agents reduce platelet aggregation. Each of these classes operates through different mechanisms, highlighting the significance of understanding the pharmacological properties of Edoxaban as a Factor Xa inhibitor specifically.