Which treatment is recommended long-term for patients with antiphospholipid syndrome?

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is characterized by thrombosis and pregnancy-related complications due to the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies. The primary goal of long-term treatment in APS is to reduce the risk of thromboembolic events. Warfarin, an anticoagulant, is effective for this purpose as it works by inhibiting vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, thereby preventing the formation of blood clots.

In patients with a history of thrombosis, especially recurrent events, long-term anticoagulation with warfarin is recommended. Therapy is often tailored based on the patient's individual risk factors and may involve monitoring the international normalized ratio (INR) to ensure it remains within a therapeutic range, generally between 2.0 and 3.0 for most patients with APS.

While low molecular weight heparin can be helpful in certain situations, particularly during pregnancy or when initiating treatment, warfarin is the preferred long-term management strategy for patients who have already experienced thrombotic events related to APS. Corticosteroids are used in situations involving inflammation or other autoimmune features but are not first-line for long-term thromboembolic prevention. Acetaminophen, while useful for pain or fever, does not