Publication:

Frequency of bleeding complications in Algerian patients treated with the vitamin K antagonist acenocoumarol and associated factors

Background The major complication of vitamin K antagonist (VKA) therapy is bleeding. This study aimed to estimate the rate of hemorrhagic accidents and identify the hemorrhagic factors in Algerian patients treated by the VKA, acenocoumarol.

Methods We performed a cross-sectional study in patients undergoing VKA therapy, followed in the cardiology department of the University Hospital of Sidi Bel Abbes.

Results One hundred patients were included. We recorded 22 cases of bleeding. Overdose and concomitant use of drugs that interfere with the acenocoumarol effect are significant risk factors of bleeding.

Conclusions Knowledge of predictive factors for VKA-related excessive anticoagulation seems to be of the utmost importance for improving patient management. There is a need for a national registry to assess the efficacy and safety of drug use in the short and long term. This pilot study is a cornerstone in the development of oral anticoagulation therapy monitoring in our region.