Warfarin decreases the incidence of forming clots in the blood vessels. These clots if remain in the arteries and veins, can impede blood flow and result in a heart attack or stroke.
warfarin
This medication is used to treat blood clots (such as deep vein thrombosis-DVT or pulmonary embolus-PE) and/or to prevent new clots from forming in your body. It is also used to treat transient ischemic attack (stroke that lasts a few minutes), treatment of venous thrombosis (blood clot in the deep veins), and pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs).
Contradications
Haemorrhagic conditions, Impaired kidney or liver functions. Within 24 hours of surgery or labour.
Side effects
Its side effects are Alopecia (hairfall), rash, diarrhea, skin reaction, GI upset, decreased hemoglobin, fever, pancreatitis, jaundice and hepatic dysfunction.
Expert Advice
- What is the use of this medicine?
This medication is used to treat blood clots (such as deep vein thrombosis-DVT or pulmonary embolus-PE) and/or to prevent new clots from forming in your body. It is also used to treat transient ischemic attack (stroke that lasts a few minutes), treatment of venous thrombosis (blood clot in the deep veins), and pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs). - What are its side effects?
Its side effects are Alopecia (hairfall), rash, diarrhea, skin reaction, GI upset, decreased hemoglobin, fever, pancreatitis, jaundice and hepatic dysfunction. - Is it safe for use during pregnancy and lactation?
This medication is contraindicated in pregnancy. Caution advised in lactating mothers. Consult your doctor for further assistance. - How should it be administered?
It is available in both oral and intravenous forms and is taken in the amount and frequency as advised by the doctor. Not recommended in children. - How to store it?
Store at room temperature away from light and moisture, not in the bathroom, and away from children’s approach. - What are its precautions?
Weight changes, Hypertension (increased blood pressure), elderly, Impaired kidney and Liver function, GI upset, protein C or S deficiency, thyroid disorders, smoking cessation. Consult your doctor for further assistance.
- What are the contraindications?
Haemorrhagic conditions, Impaired kidney or liver functions. Within 24 hours of surgery or labour.
FAQs
1. What is warfarin used for?
Can I take warfarin with NSAID?
The use of warfarin together with NSAID is not recommended. This is because both of these drugs increase the risk of bleeding. If taken together, they can increase the risk two-fold.
What are the pain relieving drugs that I can take with warfarin?
While taking warfarin, you must be very careful regarding the painkillers you take. Avoid painkillers at best, but if you do have to take one, acetaminophen is a better choice. However, consult your physician before you make the choice.
Is warfarin safe if I have diabetes and take oral hypoglycemics?
In general, warfarin can interact with oral hypoglycemic drugs and increase the intensity of the anti-diabetic drugs. This means that the blood sugar level can suddenly become low to an alarming rate, and pose as a life threatening risk. For better advice and dose adjustment, consult your doctor.
Is warfarin safe in pregnancy?
No, warfarin is not safe in pregnancy and hence should not be taken.
6. Are there any serious side effects of taking warfarin?
There can be a number of side effects of taking warfarin. Because it increases the risk of bleeding, side effects can result as dark stools, sudden bleeding from a previous site of injury, and increased bleeding time. Other side effects can include loss of hair, diarrhea, development of a skin rash, and a decrease in the overall red cell count. It is important that if you observe any such signs, you must report them to your nearest physician.
Medicines containing warfarin
Rs.128
