Coumadin

Uses
Coumadin (Warfarin Sodium) is a type of blood thinning (anticoagulant) drug used to stop blood clots from being formed. It functions as an antagonist of vitamin K. A thrombus (another name for a blood clot) is usually formed as part of the hemostatic process, so as to stop bleeding caused by injury. The formation of these clots involves platelets grouping together at the site of injury and forming a platelet plug, to prevent further bleeding. This medicine blocks the activity of vitamin K, which reduces the likelihood of blood clots. Patients suffering from conditions in which blood clots occur in the vessels may be treated with this medicine. It is used to treat or prevent venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and thromboembolic complications associated with certain medical conditions or procedures. Other uses include treating pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis.

Dosage and Administration
Coumadin (Warfarin Sodium) is supplied as 5mg tablets. The dosage and required strength of medication may differ, and in some cases patients may be told by their doctor to begin treatment with a low dosage (possibly for the first 1 to 2 days of treatment). After this, the doctor may decide to adjust the dosage based on the results of the blood tests conducted to monitor your INR (international normalised ratio) and PT (prothrombin time). This is to determine whether or not your dosage needs to be altered, as too much of this medicine may put the patient at risk of bleeding, whereas insufficient amounts will not be effective. As determining the correct dosage is complicated, it is very important for patients to only take the amount of medicine that their doctor tells them to take. Never adjust your dosage unless your doctor tells you to.

Side effects
Patients who undergo treatment with Coumadin (Warfarin Sodium) might experience some side effects, including:

• Gas
• Reduced appetite
• Taste sensation changes
• Soreness in the abdomen
• Pain that affects the stomach

Ensure that you report all side effects to your doctor. Serious reactions are sometimes caused by this medicine. Immediate medical care will be required should this occur. Examples include severe pain affecting the legs or feet, purple discolouration of the fingers or toes, inflammation, decreased urination, weak muscles or any other serious side effects which have not been listed here.

Precautions
There is a risk of gangrene or skin necrosis associated with this medicine, due to blood clots blocking the blood flow. You should seek immediate medical treatment if you experience discolouration, pain or a change in temperature affecting any part of your body.

It is important to note that this medicine may cause significantly serious bleeding. If you are affected by any bleeding disorders, have recently undergone surgery, have been injured or if any other risk factors apply to you, it is essential that you inform your doctor. Seek medical treatment immediately if any signs of severe bleeding occur.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Coumadin (Warfarin Sodium) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.