What is Warfarin?
Warfarin is an oral anticoagulant that inhibits the clotting of blood by reducing the production of certain clotting factors in the liver that depend on adequate amounts of Vitamin K. By antagonizing Vitamin K, Warfarin helps prevent blood clot formation. It is available as both brand-name drugs and less expensive generic versions.
Uses of Warfarin Medication:
Warfarin is used to treat blood clots and reduce the risk of their formation. Key uses include:
- Reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death.
- Preventing blood clots in patients with atrial fibrillation or those who have undergone heart valve replacement.
- Treating blood clots in various parts of the body.
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Warfarin Side Effects:
Common side effects:
- Unusual bruising
- Unexplainable bruises
- Bruises that grow in size
- Nosebleeds
- Bleeding gums
- Brown urine
- Vomiting blood
Serious side effects:
- Death of skin tissue
- Pain
- Purple toes syndrome
- Pain and purple or dark discoloration in the eyes
Precautions for Using Warfarin Tablets:
Before taking Warfarin, inform your doctor if you have:
- Allergies to Warfarin or other medications
- Blood disorders
- Bleeding problems
- Blood vessel disorders
- Kidney or liver disease
- Mental disorders
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Warfarin Drug Interactions:
Warfarin can interact with various herbal, vitamin, and over-the-counter products, including medications applied to the skin or inserted into the vagina or rectum. Such interactions can either increase or decrease Warfarin's anticoagulant effects, so close monitoring by a healthcare professional is essential to avoid bleeding or serious clotting issues.
How to Take Warfarin:
- Follow the physician's directions on the prescription label.
- Dosage may be adjusted by the doctor based on the condition being treated and its severity.
- Typical dosage ranges from 5 mg to 10 mg once daily for reducing the risk of death or stroke, and the same range applies for preventing clots with heart valve replacement.
Forms and Strengths of Warfarin:
Warfarin is available as generic and brand-name tablets, such as Coumadin and Jantoven, in strengths of 1 mg, 2 mg, 2.5 mg, 3 mg, 4 mg, 5 mg, 6 mg, 7.5 mg, and 10 mg.
Missed Dose:
- Missing one or two doses is generally not harmful, but it's essential to follow the physician's guidance.
- If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible unless it's close to the next scheduled dose.
- Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Overdose:
An overdose can lead to a medical emergency. Seek immediate treatment if serious symptoms occur.
Storage:
- Store at room temperature (68ºF to 77ºF / 20ºC to 25ºC).
- Keep away from heat, air, and light.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Warfarin Vs Eliquis:
Consult your doctor for any specific concerns or questions regarding Warfarin usage.