Warfarin reversal
- Correspondence to: Dr J P Hanley Department of Haematology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Queen Victoria Road, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4LP, UK; john.hanleynuth.northy.nhs.uk
- Accepted 11 March 2004
Abstract
Warfarin is the most commonly used oral anticoagulant in the UK. It is associated with few side effects apart from haemorrhage. The most appropriate way to reverse the anticoagulant effect of warfarin depends on the clinical circumstances. In serious bleeding, rapid reversal is required, whereas in minor bleeding or asymptomatic over anticoagulation, a more leisurely approach is usually appropriate. This review discusses the current approaches to warfarin reversal in clinical practice. The development of a uniform approach to warfarin reversal in the Northern Region is described.
- FFP, fresh frozen plasma
- ICH, intracranial haemorrhage
- INR, international normalised ratio
- IV, intravenous
- NRHG, Northern Region Haematologists’ Group
- PCC, prothrombin complex concentrate
- rFVIIa, recombinant activated factor VII
