Stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation: latest clinical trials and guidelines.

Abstract

Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia and 1/6 strokes is attributed to AF. The cornerstone of treatment remains maintaining sinus rhythm or appropriate ventricular rate control in addition to prevention of stroke. Oral anticoagulation therapy (OAC) with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) has been the gold standard for almost 50 years and a significant reduction in the risk of stroke in patients with AF has been demonstrated. Nonetheless, only 50% of patients with guideline recommendations for OAC treatment actually receive VKAs and half of these will discontinue therapy within 3 to 5 years with only another half achieving therapeutic ranges more than 50% of the time. The aforementioned limitations in addition with frequent blood monitoring have prompted the development of a series of new OAC therapies. The present review focuses on the current pharmacological management for stroke prevention in patients with AF based on current and emerging evidence.

• Authors: Luciana Armaganijan, Dimpi Patel, Cristiano Dietrich, Carlos A Morillo
• Journal: Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland) (Pharmaceuticals (Basel)) Vol. 5 Issue 4 Pg. 384-97 (Apr 05 2012) ISSN: 1424-8247 [Print] Switzerland
• PMID: 24281408 (Publication Type: Journal Article)