WarfarinCommon preparations
Warfarin, Coumarin
Why is it used?
To prevent the formation of blood clots, which can be responsible for causing a heart attack. It may be taken after a heart attack. It is always taken after a heart valve has been replaced with a metal valve. (To prevent clots developing on the valve). If you've had a clot (in the calf or lung), you will be asked to take it. How does it work? It prevents the formation of clots and makes the blood thinner
What to look out for
- Bruising easily
- Cuts that bleed for longer than usual
Special instructions
- Take your warfarin at the same time each day or at the frequency prescribed.
- Make sure you have your blood test (INR) to measure the thinness of your blood as instructed. This tells us that the amount of warfarin is working best for you.
- If you are going to have any dental work or surgery, please tell your dentist or surgeon that you take warfarin.
- See your GP or practice nurse if you have any concerns about taking your warfarin.
- Avoid broccoli, spinach and cod liver oil as they contain an element that thickens the blood.
- If you need to take a painkiller, take paracetamol or co-codamol. Avoid co-proxamol.
- It is safe to drink alcohol whilst on warfarin, but avoid extremes.