| Brand Name: |
Coumadin |
| Generic Name: |
Warfarin Sodium |
| Form: |
Tablets |
| Manufacturer: |
Sigma Pharmaceuticals |
What is Coumadin?
Coumadin is prescribed for patients who have recently suffered a heart attack, irregular heartbeats and people with prosthetic heart valves to prevent strokes, heart attacks or blood clots in the arteries, veins, lungs and the brain. The active ingredient warfarin sodium is considered an anticoagulant or blood thinner type of medication that works by helping decrease the clotting ability of blood to treat or prevent blood clots from forming or growing larger in the blood and blood vessels.
How is Coumadin used?
Coumadin is usually taken orally once daily or as directed by a doctor. The medication should be taken with a full glass of water but can be taken with or without food. Contact a doctor for the correct dosage and length of treatment as it will depend on the condition being treated, any laboratory tests administered and the patient’s response to the therapy. Try to avoid consuming foods that are high in vitamin K while you are taking the medication as a sudden large increase or decrease in vitamin K may affect how the drug works in the body.
Adverse effects
Coumadin may cause unwanted side effects such as:
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Hair loss
- Nausea
- Excessive gas
Contact a doctor immediately should side effects persist or encounter more severe side effects such as:
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Loss of appetite
- Altered sense of taste
- Signs of infection
- Jaundice
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Prolonged bleeding from wounds
Warnings
If you are trying to lose weight while taking the medication, contact a doctor prior to starting the diet.
Immediately proceed to your nearest emergency department if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms usually associated with such a reaction include difficulty breathing or swallowing, chest tightness, swelling, skin rashes, and hives.
Coumadin is not always suitable for all patients. Always consult your health care provider prior to using this medication if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to conceive, using any other medication (prescription or non-prescription), using any herbal products or supplements, or if you have any allergies or other health problems.
The correct dosage and prescription commonly depend on the patient and the condition being treated. Do not adjust your dosage without the approval of your health care provider. This product is only for use as prescribed and instructed. |
