[Proper use of oral anticoagulants in the elderly patient]. / Le bon usage des anticoagulants oraux chez le patient âgé.

ABSTRACT

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are tending to supplant antivitamin K inhibitors (VKAs) in their common indications, dominated in elderly patients by atrial fibrillation and venous thromboembolism. Nevertheless, it remains necessary to know how best to use VKAs for which there are still indications. It is also important not to assume that AODs can be prescribed without risk, while ignoring certain particularities in their handling, particularly in the most fragile patients with co-morbidities and multiple medications.