1
|
Thomas VV, Lenin A, George TK, Thenmozhi M, Iyadurai R, Sudarsanam TD. Trends in oral anticoagulant use - A 10-year retrospective analysis from a general medicine department of a tertiary care hospital in south India. J Postgrad Med 2024; 70:77-83. [PMID: 37470633 PMCID: PMC11160985 DOI: 10.4103/jpgm.jpgm_10_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prescribing practice of newer oral anticoagulants (NOACs) has not been adequately studied in the Indian scenario. AIMS We aimed to describe the prescribing practices of oral anticoagulants, the patient profile and medical comorbidities among patients admitted in a general medicine unit. METHODS In this retrospective study of the 2742 patients prescribed vitamin- K antagonists (VKAs), during the study period, 150 cases were randomly taken for analysis to match the 105 NOACs cases. Their demographic details, clinical characteristics and treatment details were analyzed. RESULTS More than 95% of anticoagulants prescribed were VKAs. The prescription of anticoagulants was more common in men (median age 63 years) for prescription of NOACs and 52 years for VKAs. Dabigatran (60.9%) and warfarin (81.3%) were the most prescribed drugs in their respective classes. The most common indication was for cardiovascular diseases with atrial fibrillation (32%). Diabetes and hypertension were the most common comorbidities in patients prescribed oral anticoagulants with a larger proportion of patients with heart failure being prescribed VKAs ( P < 0.01). Patients in the NOACs group had a higher HAS-BLED high-risk score (33.3% vs. 17.3%; P = 0.002). Logistic regression analysis revealed that patients with co-morbidities of congestive heart failure were more likely to be prescribed VKAs while diabetics were more likely to receive NOACs. CONCLUSIONS VKAs were the most prescribed anticoagulants; congestive heart failure, diabetes, and hypertension were the commonest comorbidities; and atrial fibrillation was the commonest indication. Patients with a high HAS-BLED score were prescribed NOACs more often.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- VV Thomas
- Department of Internal Medicine, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - A Lenin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - TK George
- Department of Internal Medicine, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - M Thenmozhi
- Department of Biostatistics, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - R Iyadurai
- Department of Internal Medicine, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - TD Sudarsanam
- Department of Internal Medicine, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Orchard JJ, Giskes K, Orchard JW, La Gerche A, Neubeck L, Hespe C, Lowres N, Freedman B. In a large primary care data set, the CHA2DS2-VASc score leads to an almost universal recommendation for anticoagulation treatment in those aged ≥65 years with atrial fibrillation. Eur J Cardiovasc Nurs 2023; 22:769-772. [PMID: 36594969 DOI: 10.1093/eurjcn/zvad002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica J Orchard
- Agnes Ginges Centre for Molecular Cardiology, Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine & Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006Australia
| | - Katrina Giskes
- Heart Research Institute, Charles Perkins Centre (D17), The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Notre Dame Australia, 160 Oxford St Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010Australia
| | - John W Orchard
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine & Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006Australia
| | - Andre La Gerche
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, 75 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, VIC 3004Australia
| | - Lis Neubeck
- School of Health and Social Care, Edinburgh Napier University, Sighthill Campus, Sighthill Court, Sighthill, Edinburgh, EH11 4BN, UK
| | - Charlotte Hespe
- School of Medicine, University of Notre Dame Australia, 160 Oxford St Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010Australia
| | - Nicole Lowres
- Heart Research Institute, Charles Perkins Centre (D17), The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Ben Freedman
- Heart Research Institute, Charles Perkins Centre (D17), The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Shaikh F, Wynne R, Castelino RL, Inglis SC, Davidson PM, Ferguson C. Practices, beliefs, and attitudes of clinicians in prescribing direct oral anticoagulants for obese adults with atrial fibrillation: a qualitative study. Int J Clin Pharm 2023:10.1007/s11096-023-01583-z. [PMID: 37253952 PMCID: PMC10228882 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-023-01583-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) and obesity affect over 60 and 650 million people, respectively. AIM This study aimed to explore clinician practices, beliefs, and attitudes towards the use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in obese adults (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) with AF. METHOD Semi-structured interviews via video conference were conducted with multidisciplinary clinicians from across Australia, with expertise in DOAC use in adults with AF. Clinicians were invited to participate using purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Data were analysed in NVIVO using thematic analysis. RESULTS Fifteen clinicians including cardiologists (n = 5), hospital and academic pharmacists (n = 5), general practitioners (n = 2), a haematologist, a neurologist and a clinical pharmacologist participated. Interviews were on average 31 ± 9 min. Key themes identified were: Health system factors in decision-making Disparities between rural and metropolitan geographic areas, availability of health services, and time limitations for in-patient decision-making, were described; Condition-related factors in decision-making Clinicians questioned the significance of obesity as part of decision-making due to the practical limitations of dose modification, and the rarity of the extremely obese cohort; Decision-making in the context of uncertainty Clinicians reported limited availability, reliability and awareness of primary evidence including limited guidance from clinical guidelines for DOAC use in obesity. CONCLUSION This study highlights the complexity of decision-making for clinicians, due to the limited availability, reliability and awareness of evidence, the intrinsic complexity of the obese cohort and limited guidance from clinical guidelines. This highlights the urgent need for contemporary research to improve the quality of evidence to guide informed shared decision-making.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fahad Shaikh
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Science, Medicine & Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
| | - Rochelle Wynne
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Science, Medicine & Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Ronald L Castelino
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Pharmacy Department, Blacktown Hospital, Western Sydney Local Health District, Blacktown, NSW, Australia
| | - Sally C Inglis
- Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care Through Clinical Research and Translation (IMPACCT), University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Caleb Ferguson
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Science, Medicine & Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Paschoal E, Gooden TE, Olmos RD, Lotufo PA, Benseñor IM, Manaseki-Holland S, Lip GYH, Thomas GN, Jolly K, Lancashire E, Lane DA, Greenfield S, Goulart AC. Health care professionals' perceptions about atrial fibrillation care in the Brazilian public primary care system: a mixed-methods study. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2022; 22:559. [PMID: 36550397 PMCID: PMC9772592 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-022-02927-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation (AF) negatively impacts health systems worldwide. We aimed to capture perceptions of and barriers and facilitators for AF care in Brazilian primary care units (PCUs) from the perspective of healthcare professionals (HCPs). METHODS This mixed-methods, cross-sectional study utilised an exploratory sequential design, beginning with the quantitative data collection (up to 18 closed questions) immediately followed by a semi-structured interview. HCPs were recruited from 11 PCUs in the Sao Paulo region and included managers, physicians, pharmacists, nurses and community health agents. Descriptive statistics were used to present findings from the quantitative questionnaire and inductive analysis was used to identify themes from the qualitative data. RESULTS One hundred seven HCPs were interviewed between September 2019 and May 2020. Three main themes were identified that encapsulated barriers and facilitators to AF care: access to care (appointments, equipment/tests and medication), HCP and patient roles (HCP/patient relationship and patient adherence) and the role of the organisation/system (infrastructure, training and protocols/guidelines). Findings from the qualitative analysis reinforced the quantitative findings, including a lack of AF-specific training for HCPs, protocols/guidelines on AF management, INR tests in the PCUs, patient knowledge of AF management and novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs) as key barriers to optimal AF care. CONCLUSIONS Development and implementation of AF-specific training for PCU HCPs are needed in Brazil, along with evidence-based protocols and guidelines, educational programmes for patients, better access to INR tests for patients taking warfarin and availability of NOACs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisabete Paschoal
- grid.488478.f0000 0004 0578 1483Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tiffany E. Gooden
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486Institute for Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Rodrigo D. Olmos
- grid.488478.f0000 0004 0578 1483Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil ,grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722School of Medicine, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paulo A. Lotufo
- grid.488478.f0000 0004 0578 1483Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil ,grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722School of Medicine, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Isabela M. Benseñor
- grid.488478.f0000 0004 0578 1483Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil ,grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722School of Medicine, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Semira Manaseki-Holland
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486Institute for Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Gregory Y. H. Lip
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486Institute for Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK ,grid.415992.20000 0004 0398 7066Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK ,grid.5117.20000 0001 0742 471XDepartment of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - G. Neil Thomas
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486Institute for Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Kate Jolly
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486Institute for Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Emma Lancashire
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486Institute for Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Deirdre A. Lane
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486Institute for Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK ,grid.415992.20000 0004 0398 7066Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sheila Greenfield
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486Institute for Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alessandra C. Goulart
- grid.488478.f0000 0004 0578 1483Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Yao C, Jones AE, Slager S, Fagerlin A, Witt DM. Exploring clinician perspectives on patients with atrial fibrillation who are not prescribed anticoagulation therapy. PEC INNOVATION 2022; 1:100062. [PMID: 37213758 PMCID: PMC10194321 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2022.100062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Objective To explore themes underlying why anticoagulants are under-prescribed for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients from the clinician's perspective and characteristics of those patients. Methods Clinicians at the University of Utah Health system were recruited for semi-structured 15-minute interviews. An interview guide focused on anticoagulant prescribing practices for patients with AF. Interviews were transcribed verbatim. Two reviewers independently coded passages corresponding with key themes. Results Eleven practitioners were interviewed from cardiology, internal medicine, and family practice. Five themes were found: the role of compliance in anticoagulation decision making, the role of pharmacists in supporting clinicians, the use of shared decision making and risk communication, risk of bleeding as the main barrier to taking anticoagulants, and the variety of reasons patients have for not starting or discontinuing anticoagulants. Conclusion Fear of bleeding was the foremost reason underlying anticoagulant underutilization in patients with AF followed by compliance, and patient worries. Communication between patients and clinicians as well as interdisciplinary teamwork are key to understanding and improving anticoagulant prescribing in AF. Innovation Our study was the first to assess the role pharmacists play in prescribing clinician's decisions surrounding anticoagulant use in AF. Pharmacists could play an important collaborative role in SDM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Yao
- Department of Pharmacotherapy, University of Utah College of Pharmacy, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Aubrey E. Jones
- Department of Pharmacotherapy, University of Utah College of Pharmacy, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Corresponding author at: 30 South 2000 East Rm 4931, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA.
| | - Stacey Slager
- Department of Pharmacotherapy, University of Utah College of Pharmacy, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Angela Fagerlin
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Salt Lake City VA Informatics Decision-Enhancement and Analytic Sciences (IDEAS) Center for Innovation, USA
| | - Daniel M. Witt
- Department of Pharmacotherapy, University of Utah College of Pharmacy, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Use of direct oral anticoagulants in primary care: a qualitative study integrating patient and practitioner perspectives. BJGP Open 2022; 6:BJGPO.2021.0226. [PMID: 35728818 PMCID: PMC9904782 DOI: 10.3399/bjgpo.2021.0226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) are increasingly offered direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) to reduce the risk of catastrophic stroke, but clinical follow-up and compliance checks are still required to maintain patient safety. Although a recent qualitative meta-analysis has explored up-to-date research in this area, little is known qualitatively about clinicians' or patients' views and experiences of DOAC use in primary care in the UK. AIM To understand the experiences of healthcare practitioners and patients in relation to DOAC use in UK primary care. DESIGN & SETTING Semi-structured interviews were undertaken. Sixteen older patients with AF taking DOACs, 10 pharmacists, and six GPs were interviewed in Sheffield, England in 2018. METHOD Interview questions were developed following a systematic literature review. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed using six-stage thematic analysis. RESULTS The integrated perspectives show that all three participant groups preferred DOACs over warfarin, a preference driven mainly by the safety profile compared with warfarin. GPs valued pharmacists' input in anticoagulant care, and pharmacists discussed patient safety in the context of anticoagulant audits, and highlighted the need for continuous patient education and counselling. Medication reviews by pharmacists were seen as a positive contribution to medicines optimisation. CONCLUSION Patients had an overriding trust in their doctors. GPs valued a collaborative approach with other clinicians, and community pharmacists appeared to highlight operational challenges in primary care that may limit the effectiveness of interventions.
Collapse
|
7
|
Sandhu RK, Seiler A, Johnson CJ, Bunch TJ, Deering TF, Deneke T, Kirchhof P, Natale A, Piccini JP, Russo AM, Hills MT, Varosy PD, Araia A, Smith AM, Freeman J. Heart Rhythm Society Atrial Fibrillation Centers of Excellence Study: A survey analysis of stakeholder practices, needs, and barriers. Heart Rhythm 2022; 19:1039-1048. [PMID: 35428582 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2022.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An integrated, coordinated, and patient-centered approach to atrial fibrillation (AF) care delivery may improve outcomes and reduce cost. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to gain a better understanding from key stakeholder groups on current practices, needs, and potential barriers to implementing optimal integrated AF care. METHODS A series of comprehensive questionnaires were designed by the Heart Rhythm Society Atrial Fibrillation Centers of Excellence (CoE) Task Force to conduct surveys with physicians, advanced practice professionals, patients, and hospital administrators. Data collected focused on the following areas: access to care, stroke prevention, education, AF quality improvement, and AF CoE needs and barriers. Survey responses were collated and analyzed by the Task Force. RESULTS The surveys identified 5 major unmet needs: (1) Standardized protocols, order sets, or care pathways in the emergency department or inpatient setting were uncommon (36%-42%). (2) All stakeholders agreed stroke prevention was a top priority; however, prior bleeding or risk of bleeding was the most frequent barrier for initiation. (3) Patients indicated that education on modifiable causes, AF-related complications, and lowering stroke risk is most important. (4) Less than half (43%) of the health care systems track patients with AF or treatment status. Patients reported that stroke and heart failure prevention and access to procedures were priority areas for an AF CoE. The most common barriers to implementing AF CoE identified by clinicians were administrative support (69%) and cost (52%); administrators reported physical space (43%). CONCLUSION On the basis of the findings of this study, the Task Force identified high priority areas to develop initiatives to aid the implementation of AF CoE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roopinder K Sandhu
- Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California.
| | | | - Colleen J Johnson
- Southeast Louisiana Veterans Healthcare System, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana
| | - T Jared Bunch
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | | | | | - Paulus Kirchhof
- University Heart and Vascular Center UKE Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | | | - Andrea M Russo
- Cooper Medical School at Rowan University, Camden, New Jersey
| | | | - Paul D Varosy
- VA Eastern Colorado Health Care Systems, Aurora, Colorado; University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Almaz Araia
- Heart Rhythm Society, Washington, District of Columbia
| | | | - James Freeman
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ivany E, Lotto R, Lip GYH, Lane D. Managing uncertainty: Physicians’ decision-making for stroke prevention for patients with atrial fibrillation and intracerebral haemorrhage. Thromb Haemost 2022; 122:1603-1611. [DOI: 10.1055/a-1789-4824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) post-intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) is an area of clinical equipoise. Little is known about the tools and processes that physicians use to make decisions regarding anticoagulation in this high-risk patient population.
Objective To explore physicians’ decision-making process regarding stroke prevention in patients with AF and a recent history of ICH.
Method Qualitative study, utilising semi-structured interviews and analysed using Framework analysis.
Results Twenty physicians from five European countries (Austria, France, Germany, Spain, United Kingdom) participated. The over-arching theme ‘Managing uncertainty’, addressed the process of making high-risk clinical decisions in the context of little available robust clinical evidence for best practice. Three sub-themes were identified under the umbrella theme: (1) ‘Computing the Risks’, captured the challenge of balancing the risks of ischaemic stroke with the risk of recurrent ICH in a complex patient population; (2) ‘Patient Factors’ highlighted the influence that patients’ beliefs and previous experience of stroke had on physicians’ decisions; and (3) ‘Making a Decision’ explored the process of reaching a final decision regarding initiation of OAC therapy or not.
Conclusion Physicians described the process of deciding on stroke prevention in patients with AF post-ICH as ‘challenging’ due to considerable ‘clinical equipoise’. Key factors that affected decision-making was patient comorbidities, functional status, and patient willingness to engage with oral anticoagulation therapy. Shared decision-making was believed to be beneficial, but physicians believed that the ultimate responsibility to decide on stroke prevention lay with the clinician.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Ivany
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Robyn Lotto
- Liverpool John Moores University - City Campus, Liverpool, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Gregory YH Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, Liverpool, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Deirdre Lane
- Liverpool Centre of Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Osasu YM, Cooper R, Mitchell C. Patients' and clinicians' perceptions of oral anticoagulants in atrial fibrillation: a systematic narrative review and meta-analysis. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2021; 22:254. [PMID: 34937557 PMCID: PMC8697449 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-021-01590-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) increases the risk of developing a stroke by 20%. AF related strokes are associated with greater morbidity. Historically, warfarin was the anticoagulant of choice for stroke prevention in patients with AF but lately patients are being switched or started on direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). DOACs are promoted as safer alternatives to warfarin and it is expected that they will be associated with fewer challenges both for patients and healthcare professionals. This systematic narrative review aimed to explore perspectives of patients and professionals on medicines optimisation of oral anticoagulation with vitamin K antagonists and DOACs in atrial fibrillation. Methods Prospero registration CRD42018091591. Systematic searches undertaken of research studies (qualitative and quantitative), published February 2018 to November 2020 from several databases (Web of Science, Scopus, Medline Via Ovid, CINHAL via Ebsco, and PubMED via NCBI) following PRISMA methodology. Data were organised using Covidence software. Two reviewers independently assessed the quality of the included studies and synthesized the findings (thematic analysis approach). Results Thirty-four studies were included. Studies were critically appraised using established critical appraisal tools (Qualsyst) and a risk of bias was assigned. Clinicians considered old age and the associated complexities such as co-morbidities and the increased potential for bleeding as potential barriers to optimising anticoagulation. Whereas patients’ health and medication beliefs influenced adherence. Notably, structured patient support was important in enhancing safety and effective anticoagulation. For both patients and clinicians, confidence and experience of safe anticoagulation was influenced by the presence of co-morbidities, poor knowledge and understanding of AF and the purpose of anticoagulation. Conclusion Age, complex multimorbidity and polypharmacy influence prescribing, with DOACs being perceived to be safer than warfarin. This systematic narrative review suggests that interventions are needed to support patient self-management. There are residual anxieties associated with long term anticoagulation in the context of complexities. Trial registration Not applicable.
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12875-021-01590-x.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yeyenta Mina Osasu
- Academic Unit of Primary Medical Care, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S5 7AU, UK.
| | | | - Caroline Mitchell
- Academic Unit of Primary Medical Care, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S5 7AU, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Qian Y, Zhang J, Li J, Weng Z. A retrospective study on the evaluation of the appropriateness of oral anticoagulant therapy for patients with atrial fibrillation. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259199. [PMID: 34762667 PMCID: PMC8584758 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) is increasing, and effective anticoagulation therapy can prevent adverse events. Selecting the appropriate OAC based on patient characteristics has become a challenge. Interventions are going to be a potential area of focus. OBJECTIVES To explore the discrepancies between clinician prescriptions and recommended guidelines of oral anticoagulants (OACs) for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), and to provide direction for improving anticoagulation strategies for treating patients with AF. MATERIALS AND METHODS Data were collected from the electronic medical record system of Fuwai Yunnan Cardiovascular Hospital between July 2019 and January 2020. The suitability of prescribed OACs for patients with AF was assessed according to the Rules for Avoiding Prescription Inappropriateness, the prescribed medicine label, and any relevant antithrombotic guidelines for treating patients with AF. RESULTS A total of 460 patients met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 53.7% received an appropriate prescription and 46.3% received an inappropriate prescription. Of the patients who received inappropriate prescriptions, 15.4% were prescribed without the presenting appropriate indicators, 1.3% were prescribed inappropriate drug selection, and 29.6% were prescribed inappropriate drug doses. For patients prescribed without providing appropriate indicators, 2.2% had no indication for medication and 13.3% had an indication for medication, but not a specific OAC. For patients with inappropriate drug selection, 1, 5 patients were on rivaroxaban, dabigatran respectively. The distribution of NOAC doses was as follows: dabigatran standard dose (45.2%), the low dose (54.8%). Rivaroxaban standard dose (58.9%), low dose (36.8%), high dose (4.3%). A total of 44 patients (9.6%) experienced bleeding events, 12 patients (2.6%) experienced embolic events, and 7 patients experienced other adverse events after dosing. CONCLUSIONS In clinical practice, it is common for patients with AF to receive inappropriate prescriptions of OACs. Therefore there is a need to enhance anticoagulation management in patients with AF to improve the appropriate use of OACs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiyi Qian
- Dept. of Pharmacy, Fuwai Yunnan Cardiovascular Hospital, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- * E-mail: (ZW); (YQ)
| | - Jiajun Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Yunnan Medical Health College, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jiangya Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Pharmacology for Natural Products, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhiying Weng
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Yunnan Key Laboratory of Pharmacology for Natural Products, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- * E-mail: (ZW); (YQ)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Medlinskiene K, Richardson S, Fylan B, Stirling K, Rattray M, Petty D. Patient Perspectives on Factors Affecting Direct Oral Anticoagulant Use for Stroke Prevention in Atrial Fibrillation. Patient Prefer Adherence 2021; 15:953-966. [PMID: 34007161 PMCID: PMC8121672 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s302016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Oral anticoagulant therapy choices for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) expanded in the last decade with the introduction of direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC). However, the implementation of DOACs was slow and varied across different health economies in England. There is limited evidence on the patient role in the uptake of new medicines, including DOACs, apart from considering their demographic and clinical characteristics. Hence, this study aimed to address the gap by exploring the view of patients with AF on factors affecting DOAC use. METHODS A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was conducted in three health economies in the North of England. Adult patients (>18 years) diagnosed with non-valvular AF, prescribed an oral anticoagulant (vitamin K antagonist or DOAC), and able to give written consent were recruited. Data were collected between August 2018 and April 2019. Audio recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using the framework method. RESULTS Four themes with eleven subthemes discussed identified factors affecting the use of DOACs. They were linked to limited healthcare financial and workforce resources, patient involvement in decision-making, patient knowledge about DOACs, safety concerns about oral anticoagulants, and oral anticoagulant therapy impact on patients' daily lives. Lack of a) opportunities to voice patient preferences and b) information on available therapy options resulted in some patients experiencing difficulties with the prescribed therapy. This was reported to cause negative impact on their daily lives, adherence, and overall satisfaction with the therapy. CONCLUSION Greater patient involvement in decision-making could prevent and resolve difficulties encountered by some patients and potentially improve outcomes plus increase the uptake of DOACs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Medlinskiene
- Medicine Optimisation Research Group, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
- Medicine Management and Pharmacy Services, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Susan Richardson
- Department of Management, Huddersfield Business School, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, HD1 3DH, UK
| | - Beth Fylan
- Medicine Optimisation Research Group, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
- Wolfson Centre for Applied Health Research, Bradford, BD9 6RJ, UK
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, NIHR Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Bradford, BD9 6RJ, UK
| | - Katherine Stirling
- Medicine Management and Pharmacy Services, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Marcus Rattray
- Medicine Optimisation Research Group, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
- Wolfson Centre for Applied Health Research, Bradford, BD9 6RJ, UK
| | - Duncan Petty
- Medicine Optimisation Research Group, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Suzuki S, Wadi L, Moores L, Yuki I, Kim J, Xu J, Paganini-Hill A, Fisher M. Stroke Preventability in Large Vessel Occlusion Treated With Mechanical Thrombectomy. Front Neurol 2021; 12:608084. [PMID: 33763011 PMCID: PMC7982657 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.608084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The preventability of strokes treated by mechanical thrombectomy is unknown. The purpose of this study was to analyze stroke preventability for patients treated with mechanical thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion. Methods: We conducted retrospective analyses of 300 patients (mean ± SE age 69 ± 0.9 years, range 18–97 years; 53% male) treated with mechanical thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion from January 2008 to March 2019. We collected data including demographics, NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) at onset, and (beginning in 2015) classified 90-day outcome by modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Patients were evaluated using a Stroke Preventability Score (SPS, 0 to 10 points) based on how well patients had been treated given their hypertension, hyperlipidemia, atrial fibrillation, and prior stroke history. We examined the relationship of SPS with NIHSS at stroke onset and with mRS outcome at 90 days. Results: SPS was calculated for 272 of the 300 patients, with mean ± SE of 2.1 ± 0.1 (range 0–8); 89 (33%) had no preventability (score 0), 120 (44%) had low preventability (score 1–3), and 63 (23%) had high preventability (score 4 or higher). SPS was significantly correlated with age (r = 0.32, p < 0.0001), while NIHSS (n = 267) was significantly higher (p = 0.03) for patients with high stroke preventability vs. low/no preventability [18.8 ± 0.92 (n = 62) vs. 16.5 ± 0.51 (n = 205)]. Among 118 patients with mRS, outcome was significantly worse (p = 0.04) in patients with high stroke preventability vs. low/no preventability [4.7 ± 0.29 (n = 28) vs. 3.8 ± 0.21 (n = 90)]. The vast majority of patients with high stroke preventability had inadequately treated atrial fibrillation (85%, 53/62). Conclusions: Nearly one quarter of stroke patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy had highly preventable strokes. While stroke preventability showed some relationship to stroke severity at onset and outcome after treatment, preventability had the strongest association with age. These findings emphasize the need for improved stroke prevention in the elderly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuichi Suzuki
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Lara Wadi
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Lisa Moores
- UC Irvine Medical Center, Orange, CA, United States
| | - Ichiro Yuki
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Jeein Kim
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Jordan Xu
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Annlia Paganini-Hill
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Mark Fisher
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Goulart AC, Olmos RD, Santos IS, Tunes G, Alencar AP, Thomas N, Lip GY, Lotufo PA, Benseñor IM. The impact of atrial fibrillation and long-term oral anticoagulant use on all-cause and cardiovascular mortality: A 12-year evaluation of the prospective Brazilian Study of Stroke Mortality and Morbidity. Int J Stroke 2021; 17:48-58. [PMID: 33527882 DOI: 10.1177/1747493021995592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial fibrillation is a predictor of poor prognosis after stroke. AIMS To evaluate atrial fibrillation and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in a stroke cohort with low socioeconomic status, taking into consideration oral anticoagulant use during 12-year follow-up. METHODS All-cause mortality was analyzed by Kaplan-Meier survival curve and Cox regression models to estimate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). For specific mortality causes, cumulative incidence functions were computed. A logit link function was used to calculate odds ratios (OR) with 95% CIs. Full models were adjusted by age, sex, oral anticoagulant use (as a time-dependent variable) and cardiovascular risk factors. RESULTS Of 1121 ischemic stroke participants, 17.8% had atrial fibrillation. Overall, 654 deaths (58.3%) were observed. Survival rate was lower (median days, interquartile range-IQR) among those with atrial fibrillation (531, IQR: 46-2039) vs. non-atrial fibrillation (1808, IQR: 334-3301), p-log rank < 0.0001). Over 12-year follow-up, previous atrial fibrillation was associated with increased mortality: all-cause (multivariable hazard ratios, 1.82; 95% CI: 1.43-2.31) and cardiovascular mortality (multivariable OR, 2.07; 95% CI: 1.36-3.14), but not stroke mortality. In the same multivariable models, oral anticoagulant use was inversely associated with all-cause mortality (oral anticoagulant time-dependent effect: multivariable hazard ratios, 0.47; 95% CI: 0.30-0.50, p = 0.002) and stroke mortality (oral anticoagulant time-dependent effect ≥ 6 months: multivariable OR, 0.09; 95% CI: 0.01-0.65, p-value = 0.02), but not cardiovascular mortality. CONCLUSIONS Among individuals with low socioeconomic status, atrial fibrillation was an independent predictor of poor survival, increasing all-cause and cardiovascular mortality risk. Long-term oral anticoagulant use was associated with a markedly reduced risk of all-cause and stroke mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra C Goulart
- Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,School of Medicine, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Diaz Olmos
- Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,School of Medicine, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Itamar S Santos
- Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,School of Medicine, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gisela Tunes
- Institute of Mathematics and Statistics, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Airlane P Alencar
- Institute of Mathematics and Statistics, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Neil Thomas
- Institute for Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Gregory Yh Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Liverpool and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK.,Aalborg Thrombosis Research Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Paulo A Lotufo
- Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,School of Medicine, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Isabela M Benseñor
- Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,School of Medicine, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Santos IS, Goulart AC, Olmos RD, Thomas GN, Lip GYH, Lotufo PA, Benseñor IM. Atrial fibrillation in low- and middle-income countries: a narrative review. Eur Heart J Suppl 2020; 22:O61-O77. [PMID: 33380945 PMCID: PMC7753884 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/suaa181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Preventing premature non-communicable disease mortality necessitates a thorough review of one of the most important risk factors for stroke, which is atrial fibrillation (AF). The latter and AF-related stroke are still considered to be problems of high-income countries and are frequently overlooked in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In this narrative review, we provide an overview of studies that evaluated at least one of the following determinants of AF burden in LMICs: current epidemiology and trends, stroke prevention, health outcomes, and economic burden. Studies focusing on samples close to the general population (including community- and primary care-based samples) indicate sex-specific prevalence rates up to 7.4% in LMICs. Although AF prevalence is still higher in high-income countries than LMICs, the gap in AF burden between these two groups has been reducing in the past three decades. Oral anticoagulant (OAC) therapy for stroke prevention is underused in LMICs, and there are little data on OAC therapy in relation to stroke risk scores, such as CHA2DS2-VASc. Available data also points to higher morbidity and mortality for patient with AF in LMICs than their counterparts in high-income countries. Data on the consequent economic burden in LMICs is scarce, but it is reasonable to consider it will follow the same trend as that observed for health outcomes. Raising the visibility of AF as a public health problem in LMICs is necessary as a first step to providing adequate care for patients with this condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Itamar S Santos
- Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Lineu Prestes 2565, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil.,Internal Medicine Deparment, School of Medicine, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alessandra C Goulart
- Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Lineu Prestes 2565, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil.,Internal Medicine Deparment, School of Medicine, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo D Olmos
- Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Lineu Prestes 2565, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil.,Internal Medicine Deparment, School of Medicine, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - G Neil Thomas
- Institute for Applied Health Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Gregory Y H Lip
- Institute for Applied Health Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.,Aalborg Thrombosis Research Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Paulo A Lotufo
- Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Lineu Prestes 2565, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil.,Internal Medicine Deparment, School of Medicine, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Isabela M Benseñor
- Center for Clinical and Epidemiological Research, Hospital Universitário, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Lineu Prestes 2565, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil.,Internal Medicine Deparment, School of Medicine, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|