Anticoagulants for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most important and modifiable risk factors for ischaemic stroke. Patients who suffer an AF-associated stroke have a high mortality and morbidity. There are now alternative agents available that reduce ischaemic stroke in patients who suffer with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) and have been shown to all have significantly fewer safety concerns with regard to intracerebral haemorrhage. Despite this, there are still many patients who are not receiving effective treatment. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidance, updated in 2014, recommends that all patients with NVAF require a personalised package of care. This aims to support the patient in making an informed choice regarding their treatment regimen through the provision of individualised information and intervention regarding their AF diagnosis and treatment plan. Providing a holistic approach to AF management is crucial in stroke prevention. This article discusses how to balance establishe...