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Warfarin |
Warfarin is a drug used to control harmful blood clotting inside veins and arteries. It works by thinning the blood and preventing these clots from forming. You might know warfarin under its brand names of Coumadin or Marevan. Warfarin can be a difficult drug to use and patients need to be careful about keeping their diet and lifestyle constant.
If you are prescribed Warfarin, you will need frequent tests while the correct dose is found. Once your doctor is happy with the dosage, you will also need regular on-going testing to monitor your blood. This simple test is called INR and shows how long it takes for your blood to clot. It is important to remember that while you are on Warfarin, drastic and even moderate changes in your diet can affect the way Warfarin works on your blood. For example, suddenly eating more green vegetables, which are high in vitamin K, can interfere with the drug. Binge drinking can also have a bad effect. And starting or discontinuing a type of vitamin or any other medication, particularly antibiotics, should be done only when your blood is monitored on a weekly basis.
If you would like some additional information to take home with you, ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the informative small blue book, "Anti-coagulant Therapy, Important Instructions for Patients".
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