A Cost Minimisation Analysis of NOACs Compared to Warfarin to Attain Therapeutic Anticoagulation amongst AF Patients, Pre- and Post- Cardioversion

Ir Med J. 2016 Dec 12;109(10):480.

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation can be managed with anticoagulation and restoration of normal sinus rhythm using direct current cardioversion (DCCV). To reduce the risk of thromboembolism, anticoagulation pre-and-post DCCV is recommended. This study investigates the cost effectiveness of using NOACs compared to warfarin to attain therapeutic anticoagulation amongst AF patients pre-and-post DCCV. Propensity score matching revealed no statistically significant difference in outcomes from using NOACs and Warfarin. A cost minimisation study was performed; demonstrating a cost differential of €209 between those administered NOACs and warfarin pre- and post-DCCV. This study demonstrates how using NOACs compared to warfarin to attain therapeutic anticoagulation amongst AF patients pre-and-post DCCV is cost effective.

MeSH terms

  • Anticoagulants / administration & dosage*
  • Anticoagulants / economics
  • Atrial Fibrillation / blood
  • Atrial Fibrillation / therapy*
  • Drug Costs*
  • Electric Countershock
  • Humans
  • Propensity Score
  • Thromboembolism / etiology
  • Thromboembolism / prevention & control*
  • Warfarin / administration & dosage*
  • Warfarin / economics

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Warfarin