Patients with atrial fibrillation taking the experimental blood-thinner abelacimab experienced significantly fewer bleeding episodes compared to those on the standard blood thinner rivaroxaban (Xarelto), according to a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine.The trial, involving 1,287 patients, was halted early due to overwhelming reductions in bleeding. Participants received monthly injections of either 150 mg or 90 mg abelacimab, or a daily oral dose of rivaroxaban.Abelacimab, a Factor XI inhibitor, blocks a blood protein involved in clot formation while minimally affecting hemostasis, the body's mechanism to control bleeding. Over a median two-year follow-up, the higher dose reduced bleeding requiring medical attention by 62%, while the lower dose reduced it by 69%.Gastrointestinal bleeding, a common complication with blood thinners, was reduced by 93% with the 150 mg dose of abelacimab compared to rivaroxaban. Earlier findings also showed reduced bleeding rates during surgeries.Though the trial did not assess stroke prevention, abelacimab has received Fast Track designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for preventing clots associated with atrial fibrillation and cancer.What Is a Blood Thinner?A blood thinner prevents blood clots from forming or enlarging in blood vessels. It helps lower the risk of cardiovascular conditions such as stroke, heart attack, and other complications caused by blocked arteries or veins.
