What Is Alternative To Inr Blood Testing

[tfg]

I am only at moderate risk of thromboembolism due to paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, and don't want to have blood tests for the rest of my life for warfarin, or the threat of a serious bleed, does anyone know of a good alternative that is available on prescription, only been on it a few months and already fed up, I am retired and 67 now, when I see my consultant next month I want to push for an alternative so am doing some research first,
tfg

[LazyGun]

"Because dabigatran does not require frequent blood tests to monitor treatment it represents a useful alternative option for people with atrial fibrillation."

http://www.pulsetoday.co.uk/nice-approves-dabigatran-as-first-warfarin-alternative-in-50-years/13624153.article#.Um9mTfm-0us

Dabigratan is a new alternative to warfarin. It does not require repeat testing in the same way as warfarin. It has been approved by NICE for certain, very specific conditions, so you might be eligible. However, it is substantially more expensive than warfarin, so you would need to discuss with your GP to see if you were eligible etc.

[catsrcool]

My local hospital has special machines for INR testing they just prick the end of your finger and a drop of blood is analysed on a disposable testing stick. You could try and find out if they are available>

[tfg]

thanks for the info, didn't know about the dabigatran, still an anticoagulant so still risk of bleeding, but cant see a way round that yet, I know about inr meters as they are like blood sugar level meters, my problem is I worry more about the effects of warfarin than I do about the A F, so I know I will keep looking
tfg