*2.2.1.1. Mechanism of action*

DOACs act through direct inhibition of thrombin or inhibition of activated factor X (factor Xa). Dabigatran etexilate mesylate is a competitive direct thrombin inhibitor. Rivaroxaban, apixaban, and edoxaban inhibit factor Xa and prothrombinase activity, thus inhibiting the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin and decreasing thrombus formation.
