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Warfarin |
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What is Warfarin and why is it prescribed? Warfarin is an anticoagulant (blood thinner). It is prescribed to: prevent and/or treat a blood clot that has formed within a blood vessel or in the lungs, prevent and/or treat blood clots associated with certain heart conditions or replacement of a heart valve, aid in the prevention of blood clots that may form in blood vessels anywhere in the body after a heart attack, and reduce the risk of death, another heart attack, or stroke after a heart attack. The most serious risks associated with Warfarin treatment are hemorrhage in any tissue or organ and, less frequently, the destruction of skin tissue cells or gangrene. The risk of hemorrhage usually depends on the dosage and length of treatment with this drug. Hemorrhage and necrosis have been reported to result in death or permanent disability. Severe necrosis can lead to the removal of damaged tissue or amputation of a limb. Necrosis appears to be associated with blood clots located in the area of tissue damage and usually occurs within a few days of starting Warfarin treatment. How should you take Warfarin? Follow your doctors directions for taking Warfarin. The objective of treatment with a blood-thinner is to control the blood-clotting process without causing severe bleeding, so that a clot does not form and cut off the blood supply necessary for normal body function. Therefore, it is very important that you take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor and that your doctor monitor your condition on a regular basis. Be especially careful to stick to the exact dosage schedule your doctor prescribes. Avoid alcohol, salicylates such as aspirin, larger than usual amounts of foods rich in vitamin K, which can counteract the effect of Warfarin, or any other drastic change in diet. Note that Warfarin often turns urine reddish-orange. You should carry an identification card that indicates you are taking Warfarin. If you miss a dose take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember, then go back to your regular schedule. If you do not remember until the next day, skip the dose. Never take two doses at once. Keep a record for your doctor of any doses you miss. Warfarin can be stored at room temperature. Close the container tightly and protect from light. Are there any Warfarin side effects? Warfarin side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Warfarin side effects may include hemorrhage (Signs of severe bleeding resulting in the loss of large amounts of blood depend upon the location and extent of bleeding). Symptoms include chest, abdomen, joint, muscle, or other pain, difficult breathing or swallowing, dizziness, headache, low blood pressure, numbness and tingling, paralysis, shortness of breath, unexplained shock, unexplained swelling, and weakness. Less common Warfarin side effects may include abdominal pain and cramping, allergic reactions, diarrhea, fatigue, feeling cold and chills, feeling of illness, fever, fluid retention and swelling, gas and bloating, hepatitis, hives, intolerance to cold, itching, lethargy, liver damage, loss of hair, nausea, necrosis, pain, purple toes, rash, severe or long-lasting inflammation of the skin, taste changes, vomiting, and yellowed skin and eyes. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Warfarin? If Warfarin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Check with your doctor before taking any other medication or vitamin product. Be extremely cautious, too, about taking any herbal remedies and supplements. A wide assortment of herbal products, including St. John's Wort, coenzyme Q10, bromelains, dan-shen, dong quai, garlic, and ginkgo biloba, are known to interact with Warfarin or otherwise affect coagulation. Are there any special warnings about Warfarin? Treatment with blood thinners may increase the risk that fatty plaque will break away from the wall of an artery and lodge at another point, causing the blockage of a blood vessel. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately: abdominal pain, abrupt and intense pain in the leg, foot, or toes, blood in the urine, bluish mottling of the skin of the legs and hands, foot ulcers, gangrene, high blood pressure, muscle pain, "purple toes syndrome", rash, or thigh or back pain. If you have any of the following conditions, tell your doctor: an infectious disease or intestinal disorder, a history of recurrent blood clot disorders in you or your family, an implanted catheter, dental procedures, inflammation of a blood vessel, moderate to severe high blood pressure, moderate to severe kidney or liver dysfunction, polycythemia vera, severe diabetes, surgery or injury that leaves large raw surfaces, or trauma or injury that may result in internal bleeding. He or she will have to consider the risks against the benefits before giving you Warfarin. If you are taking Warfarin, your doctor should periodically check the time it takes for your blood to start the clotting process. Numerous factors such as travel and changes in diet, environment, physical state, and medication may alter your response to treatment with an anticoagulant. Clotting time should also be monitored after your release from the hospital and whenever other medications are started, discontinued, or taken sporadically. While taking Warfarin, avoid activities and sports that could cause an injury. Remain cautious after you stop taking Warfarin. It will continue to work for 2 to 5 days. If you have congestive heart failure, you may become more sensitive to Warfarin and may need to have your dosage reduced. Your doctor will have you tested regularly. Notify your doctor if any illness, such as diarrhea, infection, or fever develops, if any unusual symptoms, such as pain, swelling, or discomfort, appear, or if you see prolonged bleeding from cuts, increased menstrual flow, vaginal bleeding, nosebleeds, bleeding of gums from brushing, unusual bleeding or bruising, red or dark brown urine, red or tarry black stool, headache, dizziness, or weakness. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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