Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are a class of medications used to prevent and treat blood clots. They work by directly inhibiting specific proteins in the blood that are essential for clot formation, reducing the risk of conditions like deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Common DOACs include apixaban, rivaroxaban, edoxaban, and dabigatran. Unlike traditional anticoagulants such as warfarin, DOACs do not require regular blood monitoring or dietary restrictions, making them more convenient for many patients. They are typically taken in fixed doses and have a rapid onset of action, providing effective anticoagulation with fewer interactions with other medications.