Interactions between oral anticoagulants and therapies of COVID-19
Stroke prevention with oral anticoagulants (OACs), including vitamin K antagonist (warfarin) and non-vitamin K antagonist OACs (NOACs), is the cornerstone for the managements of AF. Before initiations of OACs for AF patients infected with COVID-19, it is necessary to check platelet counts, coagulation profiles (e.g. prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time), renal s and liver functions which are probably affected with severe infections. Importantly, these parameters should be monitored and followed up closely during the disease course, and the dosages of OACs should be adjusted when indicated.