Pfizer introduces drug for stroke prevention

Pfizer, Inc. (Philippines) has announced the newly-approved indication of its latest breakthrough drug for prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in adult patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) with one or more risk factors.

The product, developed together with Bristol Myers-Squibb, is a major development in anticoagulation since the discovery of warfarin more than 50 years ago.

“Last year, we introduced this breakthrough oral drug as a preventive measure against venous thromboembolism or VTE in patients who have undergone elective hip or knee placement surgery,” explained Violi Remo, Pfizer Inc. (Philippines) country manager.

“But today, this anticoagulant has become an even more valuable medicine as it has also been approved to reduce the burden of stroke among patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation,” she added.

Atrial fibrillation is the most common cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heart beat). The lifetime risk of developing this condition is estimated to be approximately 25% for individuals 40 years of age or older.

In addition, one of the most serious medical concerns for individuals with atrial fibrillation is the increased risk of stroke, which is five times higher in people with the condition than those without it.

With Pfizer’s new drug, it is said to be the only oral anticoagulant to demonstrate superior risk reduction versus warfarin in the three important outcomes of stroke and systemic embolism, major bleeding, and all-cause mortality.