Microvisk Continuous Blood Donation Study
This study is focused on improving how we check blood clotting for people taking warfarin. Warfarin is a medication used to prevent serious health issues like strokes or deep vein clots. People on warfarin need regular blood tests, called PT/INR tests, to make sure their dose is correct and safe. This study is helping develop new, easy-to-use test strips for these checks. We're collecting blood samples from people currently on warfarin to test and improve these new strips. The goal is to make monitoring warfarin treatment simpler, more reliable, and better for patients, potentially allowing for testing in local clinics or even at home.
At a glance
What is this study about?
You've been asked to consider taking part in a study called the 'Microvisk Continuous Blood Donation Study'. This study is about helping to develop new equipment for people who take warfarin. Warfarin is a common medicine prescribed to stop blood clots forming. It's often used for conditions like an irregular heartbeat (called Atrial Fibrillation), after having a deep vein clot (Deep Vein Thrombosis), or to prevent strokes.
To make sure warfarin works well and safely, your doctor needs to know how quickly your blood clots. This is usually checked with a blood test called a PT/INR test. This test helps your doctor adjust your warfarin dose to prevent clots without making your blood too thin, which could lead to bleeding problems. The company Microvisk Technologies is developing new, easy-to-use blood test strips, similar to how people with diabetes check their blood sugar.
The main aim of this study is to collect blood samples from people currently taking warfarin. These samples will be used to test and improve Microvisk's new PT/INR test strips. Your blood will help make sure these new tests are accurate and reliable. Ultimately, these new tests could make it simpler and more convenient for people on warfarin to get their regular checks, perhaps even in local GP surgeries or community clinics, which would mean fewer trips to the hospital.
Key takeaways
- This study helps develop new, easier blood tests for warfarin.
- Participation involves a single blood donation.
- It aims to improve monitoring for people on blood thinners.
- There are no direct personal health benefits, but it helps future patients.
- Risks are minimal, similar to a standard blood test.
- You can withdraw at any time without affecting your care.
Who may be eligible?
To be able to take part in this study, you need to be an adult (over 18 years old) and currently taking warfarin medication.
There are some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you've recently been given certain other blood-thinning medications (like Heparin) in the last week, or if you have a condition called Anti-Phospholipid Syndrome (APS). You also can't take part if you are pregnant, have been pregnant in the last year, or if you have certain infections like HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, or a history of tuberculosis or tropical diseases. Finally, if you're unable to give your consent (permission) to take part, or if there's any suspicion of intravenous drug use, you wouldn't be eligible.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Are you currently taking warfarin medication?
- Have you avoided certain other blood thinners (like Heparin) in the last 7 days?
- Are you able to provide your full consent to join the study?
What does participation involve?
If you agree to take part, you will be invited for a blood collection, similar to giving a normal blood sample. This will involve a healthcare professional taking a sample of your blood from a vein in your arm. The blood collected will then be used by the researchers to test their new device and improve their manufacturing processes. This is a single blood donation, not a trial where you take new medication. After your blood sample is taken, there are no further appointments or follow-up needed for this study. The total duration of your participation would only be for the time it takes to give the blood sample.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Oxford Haemophilia and Thrombosis CentreVerified postcodeOxford, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is warfarin?
Warfarin is a medicine used to thin your blood and stop harmful clots from forming in your body.
Why do I need blood tests if I'm on warfarin?
Regular blood tests (PT/INR) are vital to make sure your warfarin dose is just right – enough to prevent clots but not so much that it causes bleeding.
What happens to my blood sample?
Your blood sample will be used by Microvisk Technologies to test and improve their new blood clotting measurement strips.
Will this study affect my usual healthcare?
No, taking part in this study will not affect your regular medical care or how your doctor manages your warfarin treatment.
How long will I be involved in the study?
Your involvement will only be for the short time it takes to donate a blood sample, usually just one visit.
How to find out more
Matthew Cust
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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