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The risks of warfarin use in the elderly
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-16, 18:03 authored by Luke BereznickiLuke Bereznicki, Gregory PetersonGregory Peterson, Shane JacksonShane Jackson, Ella van TienenElla van TienenThe use of warfarin in the elderly, particularly for stroke prevention in chronic atrial fibrillation, is steadily increasing. Although the benefits of warfarin are greatest in the elderly, so are the risk of adverse outcomes and the difficulties of anticoagulant management. Clinical systems need to improve to counter this therapeutic dilemma, as warfarin is likely to remain the only widely available oral anticoagulant for the foreseeable future. Aspects that require attention are: the careful selection of patients in whom treatment with warfarin is appropriate; initiating therapy in a low dose (e.g., 2.5 – 5 mg/day); thorough education of patients and carers; close monitoring, especially with any change in the patient's regular drug therapy; involving patients more in the management of their warfarin therapy (self-monitoring/management in suitable patients); and ongoing review of the appropriateness of therapy as circumstances change.
History
Publication title
Expert Opinion on Drug SafetyVolume
5Pagination
417-431ISSN
1474-0338Department/School
School of Pharmacy and PharmacologyPublisher
Ashley Publications LtdPlace of publication
London, UKRights statement
Copyright © 2006 Informa PlcRepository Status
- Restricted