What are the benefits of using non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants and antiplatelet therapy for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation?
Non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants and antiplatelet therapy have been shown to have significant benefits for preventing stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that this combination therapy was associated with a reduced risk of stroke/systemic embolism, a reduced risk of major bleeding, and improved overall mortality compared to single antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy. Furthermore, the combination therapy was associated with a reduced risk of ischemic stroke, which is the most common type of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. Thus, non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants and antiplatelet therapy may offer superior protection against stroke and other adverse outcomes compared to single therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation.  