Warfarin

What Is Warfarin Used For

Warfarin is an anticoagulant that aids in preventing clots from forming in the veins, arteries, lungs and or heart. Warfarin helps to stop clots from forming or from getting bigger and assists the body in naturally dissolving the clots. Although Warfarin is referred to as a blood thinner it does not actually thin your blood.

If you experience or are concerned or require more information about any of the above conditions, please contact your healthcare prescriber about Warfarin.

How To Use Warfarin

Remember to take your medication at regular intervals between every dose so that your drug will work efficiently. It is also important to follow the instructions given and read the patient information leaflet provided as these will differ between different medication.

Warfarin should be taken orally with a glass of water. Warfarin is generally only taken once daily. Remember, when taking Warfarin or any prescription drug to always follow the label closely. Be sure to take your dose at the same time daily and do not take more than directed.

Warfarin should only be taken as instructed by your healthcare prescriber. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your healthcare prescriber first or unless instructed to do so. If the medication is for your child, remember that the dosage instructions will differ, so please check prior to starting the medication.

Conflicting Medications With Warfarin

Always consult the doctor who prescribed Warfarin to you; as this is only a partial interacting medicines list:
  • Azathioprine
  • Influenza virus vaccine
  • Medicines for some forms of cancer
  • Seizure or epilepsy medicine such as carbamazepine, phenytoin and valproic acid
  • Agents that lower cholesterol
  • Vitamin K (Including vitamin, mineral and food supplements that contain vitamin K
  • Barbiturate medicines for inducing sleep or treating seizures
  • Allopurinol
  • Herbal products such as danshen, garlic, gingko, ginseng, green tea or kava kava
  • Agents that dissolve blood clots
  • Alcohol
  • Certain medicines for heart rhythm problems
  • Cimetidine
  • Thyroid medicine
  • Male hormones
  • Amiodarone
  • Aspirin or acetaminophen
  • Antibiotics or medicines for treating bacterial, fungal or viral infection
  • Disulfiram
  • Tolterodine
  • Quinidine or quinine
  • Certain medicines for high blood pressure
  • Female hormones including contraceptive or birth control pills
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Cyclosporine
It is very important to inform your healthcare prescriber of your medical history and the drugs that you are taking. For example, drugs that you are currently taking along with Warfarin may interact with each other. Inform your healthcare prescriber if you fall into any one of the following categories below:
  • Are a smoker
  • Use any other legal or illegal drugs or substances
  • Consume alcohol or caffeine on a regular basis

All of the categories listed above may affect the outcome of the medicine Warfarin and as a result give rise to unwanted side-effects.

Read more information on Warfarin using the links under About Warfarin