Modern warfarin-dosing algorithms in patients with atrial fibrillation

Aim. Thromboembolic complications are the leading cause of mortality in patients with atrial fibrillation. In order to summarize and represent a modern view on the anticoagulation therapy with warfarin recent specialized literature was reviewed. It was found that warfarin therapy is characterized by some difficulties in applying that limit the frequency of its appointment in patients with atrial fibrillation. It was found that the metabolism of warfarin is influenced by many factors, among which important role is given to genetic factors. Conclusions. It is shown that the traditional empirical approach to the warfarin dosing has a number of disadvantages associated with variability in pharmacokinetics, necessity to constant monitor its anticoagulant effect and a high risk of bleeding. Personalized approach of warfarin dosing based on pharmacogenetic testing is promising.