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HIGH POINT, N.C. -- Atrial fibrillation is the most common form of heart rhythm disorder (arrhythmia). More than two million people in the country have atrial fibrillation, and it is especially prevalent in the Southeast region of the U.S. Unfortunately, atrial fibrillation increases the risk of stroke.
Until recently, warfarin (a blood-thinning drug commonly known by the brand name Coumadin) had been the primary medication prescribed to atrial fibrillation patients to help reduce their risk of stroke. While warfarin is effective, patients who are on the medication have to make monthly doctor visits for bloodwork, and certain medications and foods can interfere with the ideal levels of warfarin in the blood.
Fortunately, three new medications have been approved as alternatives to warfarin for people with atrial fibrillation. Many people have probably already seen advertisements for some of the new drugs: Xarelto (generic – rivaroxaban), Pradaxa (generic – dabigatran) and Eliquis (generic – apixaban). These medications have been proven to work just as well, if not better, than warfarin, and have changed the way physicians approach stroke risk reduction in their patients with atrial fibrillation. It is important for atrial fibrillation patients to know their treatment options and talk about them with their doctor, especially if they are having any complications with their current medications. The primary goal is to help patients reduce their risk of stroke, while maintaining a great quality of life.
Spokesperson Background:
Dr. Chad Hilty is a cardiologist at Cone Health Medical Group HeartCare. Dr. Hilty is a 2005 graduate of the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. He completed his residency in internal medicine at the University of Rochester, and a fellowship in cardiovascular disease at the Medical University of South Carolina.
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