A guide for patients taking Coumadin

Coumadin lowers the body’s ability to make harmful blood clots that can lead to a heart attack or stroke. For patients with atrial fibrillation (a heart rhythm condition) taking Coumadin can reduce the chances of having a stroke by 84% for women and 60% for men.

What patients need to do

take regular blood tests (PT tests) to check how quickly the blood is clotting
many drugs interact with Coumadin - discuss all medications you are taking, even cold medicines or aspirin, with the physician or pharmacist
keep a steady, consistent diet and avoid alcohol. Alcohol and vitamin K in food interact with Coumadin
patients should always tell their doctor, dentist, pharmacist or nurse that they are taking Coumadin
if a patient forgets to take a pill, they should be sure to call their physician. Patients should take the missed dose as soon as possible on the same day. They should not take a double dose of Coumadin the next day to make up for the missed dose

Things to watch out for

The most common side effect associated with Coumadin therapy is bleeding. Patients should watch for the following warning signs or events and call the doctor immediately if they experience:

serious fall or trauma
fever or developing illness, including vomiting, diarrhea, infection, pain, swelling, discomfort, or other unusual symptoms
prolonged bleeding from cuts or nosebleeds; unusual bleeding from gums when brushing teeth; increased menstrual flow or vaginal bleeding
red or dark brown urine; red or tarry black stools
unusual bruising for unknown reasons
pregnancy or planned pregnancy

If patients have any questions regarding blood-thinning medications or treatment, encourage them to contact the anticoagulation clinic at the office of their choice, or call (515) 235-5000.