Bayer released Phase 3 data showing its factor XIa inhibitor asundexian reduced the risk of secondary ischemic stroke by 26% without increasing bleeding, a result the company described as a potential shift in stroke prevention therapy. The findings were presented at the International Stroke Conference and published in follow-up summaries. Asundexian’s safety profile—specifically the absence of excess bleeding—distinguishes it from traditional anticoagulants and may accelerate interest from clinicians and payors. The data place Bayer in a leading position within an emerging class targeting coagulation factors upstream of thrombin, and trigger competitive prioritization among rivals developing next‑generation antithrombotics.