Advancing Anticoagulation Strategies in Atrial Fibrillation: Evidence, Guidelines, and Patient-Centered Care

This activity was originally presented at the 2026 Directions in Pharmacy (DIP) Conference.

Program Description

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) occurs when the heart beats rapidly or irregularly for a sustained period of time. These episodes can result in ineffective atrial contraction and thromboembolism, also increasing patients' risk of stroke. While current standard-of-care anticoagulants significantly reduce stroke risk, their use is limited by the persistent and inherent risk of major bleeding. Emerging agents, such as Factor XI/XIa inhibitors, offer a targeted approach by selectively inhibiting thrombosis through the intrinsic coagulation pathway and have shown the potential to reduce bleeding complications.

This session will explain the underlying mechanisms of thromboembolism and stroke in AFib and thoroughly examine the efficacy and safety of currently approved anticoagulants alongside emerging Factor XI/XIa inhibitors. The critical role of the pharmacist in applying current, guideline-based approaches for stroke prevention, including risk assessment, appropriate therapy selection, and personalized patient monitoring, while addressing real-world gaps and disparities in anticoagulation use to minimize bleed risk will be emphasized. Community-practicing pharmacists will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to guide appropriate anticoagulant use, navigate the complex risk-benefit profile of approved and emerging anticoagulants and Factor XI/XIa inhibitors, and support responsible anticoagulation stewardship to reduce stroke risk.

Target audience: Community pharmacists and retail pharmacists
Type of activity: Application
Release date: June 30, 2026
Expiration date: June 30, 2027
Learner level: Foundational
Time to complete activity: 1.0 hour
Fee: Free

Educational Objectives

At the completion of this activity, pharmacists will be able to:

• Explain the mechanisms underlying thromboembolism and stroke risk in patients with atrial fibrillation
• Compare the mechanisms, efficacy, and safety of approved and emerging anticoagulants, including Factor XI and XIa inhibitors
• Apply guideline-based approaches for stroke prevention, including risk assessment, therapy selection, and individualized patient care