Warfarin
Uses of Warfarin
Warfarin is commonly used in the treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis, Pulmonary Embolism, and Stroke Prevention
How Warfarin Works
Warfarin which is used in the treatment of deep vein thrombosis and stroke prevention acts by inhibiting the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent coagulation factors which are II, VII, IX, and X, as well as the anticoagulant protein C and its cofactor protein S.
Side Effects of Warfarin
Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Jaundice, Hepatic dysfunction, Vasculitis, Pancreatitis, Alterations of the sense of taste, Abdominal pain, Flatulence
Warnings
Kidney High Risk
Patients with reduced kidney function require lower doses of the Warfarin and may need closer monitoring to avoid serious adverse effect such as renal damage as detected from the study recently
Alcohol Not Advisable
Consumption with alcohol is not advisable as it increases the risk of excessive bleeding.
Pregnancy Not Safe
First-trimester use of Warfarin may result in fetal Warfarin syndrome (FWS). However, the risk may lessen if the mother's who requires anticoagulation takes heparin from the start of the 6th gestational week through the end of the 12th gestational week, and again at term
Driving Generally Safe
Warfarin usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.
Liver Safe If Prescribed
It is metabolized in the liver. Also, use with care in patients with liver cirrhosis however, there are no specific guidelines for Warfarin use in patients with impaired liver function.
Lactation Safe If Prescribed
Maternal Warfarin consumption is known to not pose a significant risk to normal, full-term, breastfed infants.