title: Benefits and risks of thrombolytic, anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapies in atrial fibrillation.
abstract: The decision whether to anticoagulate is a common dilemma when faced with a patient with atrial fibrillation. This article reviews the role of warfarin and antiplatelet agents and recommends a rational approach to the management of this condition.
authors.affiliation: Cardiac Department, London Chest Hospital.
authors.forename: B G
authors.initials: BG
authors.lastname: Marchant
authors.forename: A D
authors.initials: AD
authors.lastname: Timmis
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy*; D002561:Cerebrovascular Disorders / Q000517:prevention & control; D004554:Electric Countershock; D004617:Embolism / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012307:Risk Factors; D014859:Warfarin / Q000627:therapeutic use
chemical_list: D000925:Anticoagulants; D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors; D014859:Warfarin