Overview *

Warfarin is a frequently used blood-thinning medication to help prevent harmful blood clots. Blood clots occur frequently in patients who have diseases of the blood vessels or heart, or may result from long periods of bed rest. Warfarin decreases the ability of the body to form clots. Patients taking warfarin will bleed longer after a cut or injury than someone who is not on warfarin. Faster bleeding also poses a potential risk when the bleeding occurs inside the body, such as a bleeding stomach ulcer. It is important to have just the right dosage of warfarin to avoid blood clots but not thin the blood too much. Regular blood testing is done to check what is known as a prothrombin time test, also known as a protime, PT test, or INR test. Taking your warfarin dosage at the same time each day, keeping your eating habits and exercise level regular, and having your protime checked regularly will contribute to steady blood thinness. You may be advised to keep the amount of Vitamin K in your diet at a steady level. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medication, especially antibiotics. This includes over-the-counter medications. It is advisable to wear a medic alert bracelet.

In-Depth

Introduction | Benefits
Risks of Warfarin | Taking Warfarin
The Protime Test | Controlling Protime
Call Your Doctor | Summary

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Last reviewed: 9/25/2006