Warfarin and other anticoagulants – monitoring of patients during the COVID-19 pandemic

The MHRA has reported an increase in patients taking warfarin with elevated INR values during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is likely due to various factors such as COVID-19 infection, antibiotic treatment, dietary changes, and psychological impacts on adherence. Healthcare professionals are advised to continue INR monitoring for these patients, especially if they have suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection, to reduce the risk of bleeding. They should also be aware of potential drug-drug interactions between oral anticoagulants and certain antibiotics and antivirals.