Antithrombotic therapy for congestive heart failure.
Patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) are at increased risk of thromboembolic events. However, there is much debate and uncertainty over the use of antithrombotic therapy in these patients. The evidence for oral anticoagulation is limited, although large randomised trial data are forthcoming. Aspirin may be detrimental for heart failure due to a possible interaction with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, leading to increased hospitalisations from decompensated heart failure. The objective of this review article is to summarise the available evidence regarding the risk of stroke and thromboembolic events in CHF patients, as well as the effectiveness and risks of antithrombotic therapy in these patients.
Chung
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Haemostasis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology Unit, University Department of Medicine, City Hospital, Birmingham, UK.
Lip
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D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000209:etiology; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D005343:Fibrinolytic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006322:Heart Aneurysm / Q000209:etiology; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006470:Hemorrhage / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D018579:Patient Selection; D012307:Risk Factors; D013927:Thrombosis / Q000209:etiology
D000925:Anticoagulants; D005343:Fibrinolytic Agents