Anticoagulation in atrial fibrillation: the trials and tribulations of keeping within therapeutic range

Curr Med Res Opin. 2008 May;24(5):1455-8. doi: 10.1185/030079908x301875. Epub 2008 Apr 9.

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a growing epidemic in the developed world that has attracted much attention due to the associated risk of stroke and thromboembolism. This article discusses the application of oral anticoagulation (OAC) therapy with vitamin K antagonists (VKA) in order to reduce these risks. The article provides an overview of OAC management and highlights the need for greater efforts to increase time within therapeutic range.

Publication types

  • Editorial

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Oral
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Anticoagulants / administration & dosage*
  • Anticoagulants / adverse effects
  • Atrial Fibrillation / complications
  • Atrial Fibrillation / drug therapy*
  • Atrial Fibrillation / mortality*
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Maximum Tolerated Dose
  • Prognosis
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Risk Assessment
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Stroke / prevention & control*
  • Survival Analysis
  • Treatment Outcome
  • United Kingdom

Substances

  • Anticoagulants