[Anticoagulation for atrial fibrillation in the patient at risk for falls]

Rev Med Suisse. 2015 Oct 14;11(490):1899-900, 1902-3.
[Article in French]

Abstract

The incidence of atrial fibrillation increases with age as does the risk of subsequent ischemic stroke. Falls are a frequent problem in the geriatric population and often hamper the clinician in prescribing anticoagulants despite an indication based on the CHA2DS2-VASc score for fear of intracranial bleeding. This paper reviews the evidence on the safety of oral anticoagulants in this population. Based on observational data, being at risk for falls does not appear to be an absolute contraindication to oral anticoagulants.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Accidental Falls*
  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Anticoagulants / adverse effects
  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use*
  • Atrial Fibrillation / complications
  • Atrial Fibrillation / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Hemorrhages / chemically induced

Substances

  • Anticoagulants