Effectiveness and safety of vitamin K antagonists and new anticoagulants in the prevention of thromboembolism in atrial fibrillation in older adults – a systematic review of reviews and the development of recommendations to reduce inappropriate prescribing

Background Oral anticoagulants are used for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation, the most common cardiac arrhythmia in older adults. The aim of our study was to identify the evidence on the risks and benefits of anticoagulant use among adults aged ≥65 years with atrial fibrillation and to develop recommendations to reduce inappropriate use with a primary focus on new oral anticoagulants.