The Use of Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Agents among Outpatients in Alkharj
Nehad J. Ahmed *
Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Thromboembolic diseases are a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Anticoagulants and antiplatelet medications are important therapies in the prevention and treatment of cerebrovascular and cardiovascular diseases. There is a limited data about the prescribing of these medications.
Aim: This study aims to describe the pattern of anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents use among outpatients in Alkharj.
Methodology: This is a retrospective study that includes the electronic prescriptions among outpatients in a public hospital in Alkharj
Results: Aspirin was the most commonly prescribed agent (61.73%) followed by clopidogrel (18.60%) and enoxaparin (69%). Aspirin and clopidogrel was the most commonly prescribed combination (77.27%). Antiplatelet agents and anticoagulants result in improve several benefits but also could result in severe adverse effects and several drug interactions.
Conclusion: The prescribers should ensure that benefit of Antiplatelet and anticoagulant outweigh the bleeding risk before prescribing these medications. It is important also to implement educational interventions to improve their use.
Keywords: Anticoagulant, antiplatelet, use, pattern