Warfarin (Coumadin) Educational Material

The following information will help you understand more about the medication that your doctor has prescribed.  Please read carefully.  You will be asked to sign a consent form in our office after our staff has reviewed this information with you.

Your Condition

You have some abnormal blood clotting (also referred to as coagulation) for which you need to take warfarin (know also as Coumadin).  Warfarn (Coumadin) is an anticoagulant or blood thinner and is intended to:

     *  Prevent and/or treat a blood clot that has formed in a blood vessel or the lungs.
     *  Prevent and/or treat blood clots associated with certain heart conditions (such as atrial fibrillation or replacement
        of a heart valve).
     *  Help prevent blood clots that may form in blood vessels anywhere in the body after a heart attack.  These blood
        clots could lead to a stroke if left untreated.
     *  Lower the risk of death, another heart attack, or stroke after a heart attack.

The Risks

There are risks associated with this medication which include but are not limited to:

     *  Bleeding - You could bleed from the gums or nose, cough up blood, have red or black bowel movements, red
         or dark brown colored urine, or have unusually heavy menstrual bleeding.
     *  Bruising - You may notice you bruise easily or have small purple spots on the skin.
     *  Hair Loss
     *  Headache
     *  Poor Appetite
     *  Mild Stomach Cramps
     *  Hemorrhage and Death - There is a risk of hemorrhage (a large amount of bleeding that cannot be stopped)
         and this could result in death.

These risks can be managed by following your doctor's orders and advice.

     *  You must take your medication exactly as the doctor has ordered.
     *  You must follow the schedule for blood monitoring tests exactly as the doctor has ordered.
     *  You must report any of the signs and/or symptoms listed above.
     *  You must report all other medications you are taking, both prescription medicines and over-the-counter
         medications.

Alternatives

Aspirin and Plavix may be an alternative treatment to warfarin (Coumadin) in some situations such as atrial fibrillation, congestive heart failure, and stroke.  How well any alternative treatment works will depend on your specific condition.

Monitoring

Regular blood tests, called Protime (PT) and International Normalized Ratio (INR) tests will be required while you are taking warfariin (Coumadin).  Your doctor may adjust your dose after reviewing the results of these tests.  It is very important that you keep all of your appointments for testing.

Food high in Vitamin K may affect the way that warfarin (Coumadin) works.  You should carefully watch the amount of foods containing Vitamin K that you eat.  We will provide you with a list of foods that are high in Vitamin K.  You should eat a healthy consistent diet.

It is important to let your doctor or nurse know if you have missed any medication.  They need to know exactly how many pills you have missed. 

Safety Tips

Follow the safety tips below when taking warfarm (Coumadin).  Not doing so could be dangerous to your health.

1.  Take your warfarin (Coumadin) pill at the same time of day, every day.
2.  Do not take a double dose if you miss a pill.
3.  If you do miss a pill, let your doctor or nurse know at your next blood test.
4.  Use a soft bristle toothbrush.
5.  Use an electric razor to shave.
6.  Eat a regular diet.  Do not eat a large amount of food high in Vitamin K.

Note to Patient

This educational material has told you the risks, benefits, and complications that could happen with your medication.  If, after reading and reviewing this information with your doctor, you do not believe that you really understand the risks, benefits, and complications associated with taking warfarin (Coumadin), be sure to make an appointment to review this information with your doctor until all of your questions have been answered.