[Biological monitoring and prevention of complications from antithrombotic agents]

Abstract

Antithrombotic agents are widely prescribed in cardiovascular diseases. It is essential to understand the conditions of biological monitoring and the potential complications of these drugs. Treatment with unfractionated heparin and vitamin-K antagonists requires strict biological follow-up, the rules of which must be respected to avoid therapeutic failure or bleeding complications. Biological monitoring of low molecular weight heparins is extremely simple and that of antiplatelet agents is unnecessary. Regular patient follow-up, both clinical and biological, the respecting of contra-indications and recommendations of usage, and special attention to the problem of drug interaction, should result in better efficacy and tolerance of antithrombotic therapy.