How it works
Coumadin is used to prevent the formation of blood clots in arteries and the lungs. These conditions are called thrombosis and embolism. It is also used to cure clots that have already formed.
Guidelines for Usage
Follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor or as mentioned in the instruction booklet/product label.
Always use only as prescribed. Never exceed the dosage.
Take care that you swallow the tablet whole without breaking, crushing or chewing it unless you have been advised accordingly.
Doctors recommend that you swallow the whole tablet/capsules with a glass of water unless it is specified that it can be broken or chewed.
NOTE: Use only if prescribed to you and intended for your use. Do not share with others.
Missed Dose
It is common for people to forget their dosage times and miss doses.
Do not panic if you have missed a dose.
Instead, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not double up or take more than what the doctor has prescribed.
How and where do i store Coumadin
The medicine label contains detailed instructions regarding safe storage of the medication. Most medicines are best stored at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Some medications may require to be refrigerated. Please check the product label.
Keep it away from the reach of children. Ensure that it is not exposed to direct sunlight or moisture.
Ask your pharmacist about safely disposing off medication that is past expiry date.
Overdose Information
If you accidentally consume more medication than what was prescribed, then contact an emergency healthcare center immediately.
Safety Information
Safety Information/ Warning Precautions
Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider before you start using any new medication.
Ensure that you mention the following:
• Any prior serious ailment, lifestyle disease or surgery
• All the prescription drugs, OTC health supplements, herbal supplements that you are using currently
• Your alcohol intake and whether you smoke or not
• Any history of a known allergic reaction to prescription drugs or food
· Eliac sprue (an intestinal disorder);
· Diabetes;
· Congestive heart failure;
· Overactive thyroid;
· Recent or upcoming surgery on your brain, spine, or eye;
· A connective tissue disorder such as marfan syndrome, sjogren syndrome, scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus;
· If you use a catheter;
· If you have ever had low blood platelets after receiving heparin; or
· If you have used coumadin in the past and it was not effective.
This will allow your healthcare provider to prescribe the apt dosage of the medication for you.
To be avoided
You must avoid using Coumadin if it you are allergic to any ingredient in it or
· If you have bleeding tendencies, bleeding problems (eg, hemophilia), severe or uncontrolled high blood pressure, certain blood problems (eg, low white blood cell or platelet levels), or leukemia;
· You have active serious bleeding, bleeding in the brain, certain blood vessel problems (eg, aneurysm, dissecting aorta), or inflammation or infection of the heart;you have active ulcer or bleeding of the stomach or bowel, urinary tract, genitals, or respiratory tract;
· You have recently had or will be having eye, brain, or spinal cord surgery; spinal puncture; spinal anesthesia; or any type of major surgery; you are pregnant or may become pregnant;
· You are unable to have routine blood clotting tests; you are unable to follow your doctor's instructions properly and do not have someone to help you take your medicine;
· You are taking mifepristone, streptokinase, or urokinase.
Using Alcohol
Alcohol, cranberry juice and related products must be completely avoided while using Coumadin.
Additional Information
Coumadin prevents blood from clotting in the body. So even a small injury can pose a risk of uncontrolled bleeding. Maintain caution even while brushing your teeth or flossing.
Avoid getting overheated as elevated body temperatures increase the risk of side effects.
Aspirin must be avoided completely. If your doctor has prescribed aspirin to you, then discuss about Coumadin with him.
Traces of Coumadin and its effects last for up to 5 days after stopping treatment. Ensure that you maintain the precautions even after.
Coumadin must be used with caution in Asian patients as they are known to be more prone to the side effects.
Doctors recommend carrying out blood clotting tests (eg, PT, INR) while undergoing treatment. Please ensure that you do not miss out on any laboratory tests.
Elderly patients are more likely to experience bleeding and other side effects while using Coumadin.
Information for Pregnant Women
The Drug is categorized under FDA pregnancy category X
Coumadin is found in breast milk. Discuss the potential risks with your healthcare provider before using the medication.
Certain medications may be found in breast milk so speak to your child’s doctor to rule out any possibilities of risk.
