10
Things to Discuss
Helping the Patient to Choose an Anticoagulant
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How much do I wish to avoid a stroke?
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How well do they work?
DO NOT use aspirin. Effective anticoagulation reduces the risk of AF related ischaemic stroke by two thirds.
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How often do I need to take tablets?
Once or twice daily options.
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Do I need regular blood tests?
All OACs require some monitoring: INR for warfarin, renal function for DOAC.
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… And how often?
Monitoring of renal function remains necessary at least annually with DOACs, more frequently in renal impairment and/or unstable renal function.
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What would happen if I had bleeding?
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Do they interact with my other medicines?