Bayer reported top-line Phase 3 results showing its oral factor XIa inhibitor asundexian reduced recurrent ischemic stroke risk when added to standard antiplatelet therapy, meeting the trial’s primary endpoint without raising major bleeding rates, the company said. The Oceanic Stroke study enrolled more than 12,000 patients; Bayer plans to present full data at a scientific meeting and engage regulators on next steps. The result marks a notable win for the FXIa class after a string of disappointments and revives investor and scientific interest in coagulation approaches that aim to block thrombosis with lower bleeding risk than existing anticoagulants. Company statements and media coverage emphasized the safety signal and the potential for a new oral class in secondary stroke prevention. Clarification: Factor XIa inhibitors target a coagulation enzyme believed to reduce clot formation while preserving hemostasis, potentially lowering bleeding risk compared with traditional anticoagulants.