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Generic Name: Warfarin
Brand Name: Coumadin
(war' far in)
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Why is warfarin prescribed?
Coumadin (Warfarin) is used to prevent blood clots from forming or growing larger. It is often prescribed for patients with certain types of irregular heartbeat and after a heart attack or heart valve replacement surgery. It works by stopping the formation of substances that cause clots.
Coumadin is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
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How should warfarin be used properly?
Warfarin (Coumadin) comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken once a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take warfarin exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Continue to take warfarin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking warfarin without talking to your doctor.
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What are the common uses for warfarin?
Warfarin is also used with other drugs in the treatment of some lung cancers. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your condition.
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What special precautions should I follow when using warfarin?
Before taking warfarin,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to warfarin, aspirin, tartrazine (a yellow dye in some medications and processed foods), or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other heart medications; antibiotics; aspirin and other non-steroidal antiiflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn); cimetidine (Tagamet); medications for cancer, depression, diabetes, digestive problems, epilepsy, gout, high cholesterol, and thyroid problems; and vitamins. Many medications interfere with the effectiveness of warfarin. It is important that you tell your doctor every medication that you take, including nonprescription medications. Do not take any new medications without talking to your doctor.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what herbal products you are taking, especially bromelains, coenzyme Q10, danshen, dong quai, garlic, Ginkgo biloba, and St. John's wort. Do not start taking any herbal products without talking to your doctor.
- tell your doctor if you have had your prostate removed, have or have ever had a stroke, kidney or liver disease, high blood pressure, a thyroid condition, diabetes, tuberculosis, a bleeding disorder, ulcers, leukemia, vitamin C deficiency, colostomy bag, or intestinal disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking warfarin, call your doctor.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking warfarin. Your doctor may tell you to stop taking warfarin 3 days before your procedure. Follow these directions.
- ask your doctor about the safe use of alcohol while you are taking warfarin.
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What special dietary instructions should I follow while taking warfarin?
Do not increase your consumption of foods containing vitamin K, such as liver, green leafy vegetables, broccoli, and cauliflower, without discussing your diet with your doctor.
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What should I do if I forget a dose of warfarin?
You should take the missed dose of warfarin just as soon as you remember to take it. Unless, it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose of your medication to make up for a missed one.
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What side effects can warfarin cause?
Although side effects from warfarin are not common, they can occur. Warfarin may turn your urine red-orange; this effect is harmless. If you think your urine contains blood, call your doctor immediately. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- upset stomach
- headache
- skin rash
- diarrhea
- fever
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- black or bloody stools
- unexplained fever
- blood in the urine
- stomach pain
- sore throat
- tiredness
- chills
» top What storage conditions are needed for warfarin?
Always keep the warfarin in the same container it came in. Make sure it is tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store this medication at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture; do not store this medication in the bathroom.
Always be sure to dispose of any medication that is no longer needed or outdated. Be sure to ask your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
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What do I do in case of emergency or a warfarin overdose?
In case of a warfarin overdose, be sure to call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim is not breathing or has collapsed, dial 911 for local emergency services.
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What other information should I know about warfarin?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to warfarin.
Warfarin prevents blood from clotting so it may take longer than usual for you to stop bleeding if you are cut or injured. Avoid activities that have a high risk of causing injury. Call your doctor if bleeding is unusual.
Carry an identification card or wear a bracelet that indicates that you take warfarin. Ask your pharmacist or doctor how to obtain this card or bracelet. List your name, medical problems, drugs and dosages, and doctor's name and telephone number on the card. Tell any doctor or dentist that you visit that you are taking warfarin.
If you have an illness that causes vomiting, diarrhea, or fever for more than a few days, call your doctor. These problems can change the effectiveness of warfarin.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
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This document is provided for information only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a physician, either to diagnose symptoms or prescribe treatment. Any dosages mentioned are general guidelines only; please follow the directions of your doctor or pharmacist exactly when taking medication. We have made every effort to ensure that this information is accurate, but only your doctor can say if a medication, or drug combination, is safe for you. Information intended for US residents only.
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