Circ Cardiovasc Qual
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Circ Cardiovasc Qual · Sep 2012
Review Meta AnalysisSystematic review and adjusted indirect comparison meta-analysis of oral anticoagulants in atrial fibrillation.
Oral anticoagulants such as apixaban, dabigatran, and rivaroxaban are alternatives to warfarin for preventing events in patients with atrial fibrillation. Direct comparative studies between agents are unavailable. Our objective was to conduct an adjusted indirect comparison meta-analysis between new oral agents in atrial fibrillation. ⋯ Significant differences in efficacy and safety parameters may exist between oral anticoagulant agents in patients with atrial fibrillation. Apixaban lowers the risk of major and gastrointestinal bleeding versus dabigatran and rivaroxaban. Dabigatran lowers the composite of stroke or systemic emboli, and ischemic stroke versus rivaroxaban. Head-to-head clinical trials are required to confirm these findings.
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Circ Cardiovasc Qual · Sep 2012
Review Meta AnalysisAssociation of obstructive sleep apnea with risk of serious cardiovascular events: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
The relationship between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and cardiovascular events remains unclear. We conducted a systematic review to determine the incident risk of cardiovascular events among patients with OSA. ⋯ OSA appears to be associated with stroke, but the relationship with ischemic heart disease and cardiovascular mortality needs further research.