Coumadin/Warfarin

Coumadin information

Coumadin prevents blood clots from forming or growing larger, and is often used in patients with certain types of irregular heartbeat, patients after a heart attack, or patients who have had heart valve replacement surgery.

Coumadin - Side Effects

Coumadin is usually well-received, but there is still a possibility of side effects. Coumadin may turn your urine red-orange; this effect is harmless. If you think your urine contains blood, call your doctor immediately. If you experience any of the following symptoms and they become severe or do not go away, tell your doctor: headache, upset stomach, diarrhea, fever, skin rash. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately: unusual bleeding or bruising, black or bloody stools, blood in the urine, tiredness, unexplained fever, chills, sore throat, stomach pain.

Coumadin - Warnings

Before taking Coumadin, nofity 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 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 Coumadin, call your doctor. Before any medical procedure or 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. Consult your doctor regarding consumption of alcohol while you are using Coumadin. 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. In case of overdose, seek emergency medical assistance. Keep all of your doctor and lab appointments. Since Coumadin slows blood clotting, 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 another condition that causes vomiting, diarrhea, or fever, for more than a few days, consult your doctor: the effectiveness of Coumadin may be reduced. Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

Coumadin - Proper Storage

Keep in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer used.

Coumadin - Proper Usage

Take exactly as instructed. The usual dose is one tablet (by mouth) per day. Continue to take warfarin even if you feel well. Do not take a higher dose of Coumadin or take it more often than your doctor ordered. Do not stop taking Coumadin without talking to your doctor. Taking too much or quitting abruptly can both have very dangerous results (see "Warnings" section).

Coumadin - Missed Dosge

Take the missed dose as soon as possible; but if it is almost time for the next dose, just skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Avoid taking a double dose. Missing a dose of Coumadin may alter your blood-clotting test results. Record the date of the missed dose and tell your doctor at your next visit. If you miss two or more doses of Coumadin, contact a doctor immediately.

Coumadin - Drug Interactions

Notify your doctor and pharmacist about all prescription and nonprescription drugs 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. In addition, 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.