Disclosures

GOAL To provide current information on anticoagulation therapy for the treatment of atrial fibrillation.

TARGET AUDIENCE

This activity is intended for physicians, medical directors, pharmacists, pharmacy directors, P&T committee members, primary care physicians, and specialists in hematology and internal medicine.

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES

After participating in this activity, participants should be better able to: ¡ Explain the epidemiology and initial management of new-onset atrial fibrillation.

Discuss the randomized trial evidence for the efficacy and safety of anticoagulants.

Describe the impact of anticoagulation therapy on costs, stroke risk, and quality of life.

Identify the new antithrombotic drugs currently under study and review their impact on treating atrial fibrillation.

CONTINUING MEDICAL EDUCATION ACCREDITATION

The University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Designation of Credit

The University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine designates this educational activity for a maximum of 2 category 1 credits toward the AMA Physician's Recognition Award. Each physician should claim only those credits he/she spends in the activity.

This enduring material was released in April 2004, and the CME certification will expire on April 30, 2005.

FUNDING

This educational activity is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from AstraZeneca.