Use of anticoagulants in elderly patients

The risk of thrombosis increases with age and the elderly are particularly likely to both be given and benefit from anticoagulant therapy. However, the bleeding risk is also higher in this patient population. For these reasons, the risk/benefit ratio must be carefully weighed for this age population, with periodic risk/benefit reassessments required. This article reviews the terms of use of antithrombotic agents and the required adaptations in the elderly.