Clot prevention: Common questions about medications

Abstract

Background; Warfarin is commonly used in a number of clinical settings. Given the difficulties in managing patients taking warfarin, several questions are usually raised by clinicians in relation to its use. Objectives; This article addresses some of the clinical questions related to warfarin use. Discussion; Routine genetic testing before warfarin initiation is not currently recommended. None of the new oral anticoagulants is marketed in Australia for long term therapy as warfarin substitutes. Strategies to prevent thrombosis associated with air travel are discussed and measures to minimise the risk of bleeding are highlighted.