Newer anticoagulants linked to slower cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s patients with atrial fibrillation
A Swedish study found that patients with both Alzheimer’s disease and atrial fibrillation who use newer blood thinners experience a modestly slower drop in cognitive scores than those on warfarin or no anticoagulant.
In a nationwide analysis of patients diagnosed with both atrial fibrillation and Alzheimer’s disease, researchers compared three matched cohorts: those prescribed newer oral anticoagulants (NOACs), those on the older drug warfarin, and those receiving no anticoagulant therapy. Cognitive performance was measured annually using the Mini-Mental State Examination, with the NOAC group showing a decline of slightly more than 0.2 points per year—less than the warfarin and untreated groups.
Beyond cognition, NOAC users experienced reduced incidences of death, stroke, thromboembolic events and fractures, whereas warfarin users had a higher likelihood of major bleeding. The investigators stress that, as an observational study, unmeasured factors could influence the outcomes and medication switches during follow-up may affect results. Funding came from Swedish research bodies, and potential conflicts of interest were disclosed.
Why it matters
The findings suggest a common heart medication might also help preserve brain function in a vulnerable patient group.
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