Pharmacists prevented an estimated 886 strokes in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), according to a review of GP patients.

The review monitored use of anticoagulants in AF patients with medium or high risk of stroke at 1,028 practices.

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More than 28,000 patients had their therapy reassessed in relation to adherence, lifestyle, interacting therapies, preference and other factors.

Of those, 71% were currently taking oral anticoagulants. Their medication was examined by pharmacists and their dosages optimised.

A further 29% (16,705 patients) began anticoagulant treatment for the first time.

Through direct patient interventions, it is estimated that the scheme saved the NHS £22m in associated costs of stroke treatment.

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Over one million people in the UK have AF, which can lead to a five-time greater risk of stroke. Causes include high blood pressure, heart valve disease, thyrotoxicosis, and excess alcohol consumption.

During the assessment 12% of all UK patients with AF were reviewed. This has risen to 20% to date since the scheme has continued.

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The clinical assessment was presented at the annual RCGP conference on 7 October.

By Alice Harrold