Haemostasis and the Need for Antithrombotics: An Introduction.

Antithrombotic and antiplatelet agents have been in use for over 100 years, with many listed as WHO essential medicines. Mortality and morbidity caused by cardiovascular diseases and due to arterial and venous thrombosis are increasing globally. The old legacy products such as heparin and warfarin, and the newer generation of agents, such as DOACs and anti-platelet agents, are needed to protect public health and reduce the burden on global healthcare systems. With new technologies and an increased understanding of the underlining mechanisms of thrombotic diseases, new drugs/therapies will continue to be developed. In addition, these therapies require monitoring to ensure safety and efficacy. This chapter sets the framework for this book.