title: Oral anticoagulants in the 1980s. A reassessment of indications, dosage and laboratory control.
abstract: Oral anticoagulants were introduced into clinical practice in the late 1940s. An initial wave of enthusiasm was followed by a period of scepticism in the late 1950s and 1960s. During the 1970s and recently a number of studies have revealed new evidence of clinical benefits in many thrombo-embolic conditions. The importance of correct dosage based on sound laboratory control has been recognized as a fundamental prerequisite for efficient use of this form of therapy. A reassessment of the correct therapeutic range based on prothrombin assays which conform to an international standard has resulted in more effective dosage within acceptable limits of safety. Currently accepted indications for oral anticoagulation therapy and the optimal therapeutic ranges for various thromboplastin preparations are reviewed.
mesh_terms: D000284:Administration, Oral; D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000592:standards / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D006801:Humans
chemical_list: D000925:Anticoagulants