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The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation
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The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation

Published on: February 28, 2012

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Patterns of oral anticoagulants use in atrial fibrillation

C Brais, J Larochelle, Mh Turgeon

    Journal of Population Therapeutics and Clinical Pharmacology = Journal De La Therapeutique Des Populations Et De La Pharmacologie Clinique
    |February 26, 2015
    PubMed

    Insights

    Dabigatran use was low in the initial 6 months post-availability for atrial fibrillation management. Patients on dabigatran were younger and healthier than warfarin users, suggesting cautious adoption.

    Area of Science:

    • Pharmacology
    • Cardiology
    • Health Services Research

    Background:

    • Novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs) offer convenience over warfarin for atrial fibrillation (AF).
    • Dabigatran, a NOAC, became available in the study hospital during the observation period.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To analyze oral anticoagulant prescribing patterns in the 6 months after dabigatran's introduction.
    • To compare patient characteristics between dabigatran and warfarin users for AF management.

    Main Methods:

    • Cross-sectional study of AF patients hospitalized between October 2011 and March 2012.
    • Review of medical records to determine anticoagulant type and usage patterns.
    • Statistical comparison (Chi-squared, T-tests) of warfarin and dabigatran user demographics and comorbidities.

    Main Results:

    • Dabigatran use was 13% (59 patients) versus 87% (388 patients) for warfarin.
    • Dabigatran users had lower mean CHADS2 scores, were younger, and had fewer chronic medications.
    • Dabigatran group showed less coronary artery disease and better renal function compared to warfarin users.

    Conclusions:

    • Initial adoption of dabigatran for AF was limited in the first six months.
    • Prescribing patterns suggest cautious use in patients with multiple comorbidities due to limited efficacy and safety data.
    Abstract

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