Approach to Antiplatelet and Anticoagulant Therapy Before Endoscopic Procedures

Abstract

The use of anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents has become more prevalent during the past decades. These drugs may potentially cause gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. Thus, there is an increasing need for GI endoscopy in patients who take these medications. In patients who take anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents, the appropriate conditions under which endoscopic procedures should be performed remain unclear. In this manuscript, we reviewed studies regarding this context in an attempt to present a practical guideline for management these patients.