Journal of Basic and Clinical Pharmacy received 13553 citations as per google scholar report
Background: Anticoagulants are drugs used to prevent thrombus extension and embolic complications by reducing the rate of fibrin formation. In a hospital setting anticoagulants are mainly used for the different indications; however, both under-anticoagulation and over-anticoagulation may expose the patient to different problems. The objective of this study was to assess the utilization patterns of anticoagulants at medical ward of Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital (HFSUH).
Methods: A retrospective study was conducted at Medical Ward of HFSUH from Medical record of patients’ who take anticoagulants from March 30, 2014 to March 30, 2016. The study was conducted from April 1 to May 10, 2016.
Results: A total of 87 patients over a period of 2 years were on anticoagulant and laboratory monitoring done in HFSUH. More females were on anticoagulant and monitoring. The anticoagulants used were unfractionated heparin, low-molecular weight heparins and warfarin. The most common clinical indications for anticoagulant therapy were lower leg deep vein thrombosis (45.98%), followed by pulmonary embolism (22.98%) and stroke (18.39%). Target INR was achieved in 39.1%, desired clinical outcome was achieved in 37.9%, and minor bleeding complications were seen in 11.5%. Conclusion: The results of this study revealed that the most common clinical indications for anticoagulant therapy were lower leg deep vein thrombosis and the most commonly prescribed anticoagulant drugs was warfarin alone or in combination with other anticoagulants.