Warfarin
Content provided by Cerner Multum, Inc.
What is the most important information I should know about warfarin?
| Pronunciation: | WAR far in |
| Brand: | Coumadin, Jantoven |
 | This medication can cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Do not use if you are pregnant. Use an effective form of birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. |
 | Never take a double dose of this medication. |
If you need to have a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) or any type of surgery, you may need to temporarily stop using warfarin. Be sure the surgeon knows ahead of time that you are using this medication.
 | Carry an ID card or wear a medical alert bracelet stating that you are taking warfarin, in case of emergency. Any doctor, dentist, or emergency medical care provider who treats you should know that you are taking warfarin. |
| Warfarin interacts with many other drugs, and these interactions can be dangerous, even fatal. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. |
| You should not take acetaminophen (Tylenol), aspirin, or NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) unless your doctor has told you to. NSAIDs include celecoxib (Celebrex), diclofenac (Voltaren), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), indomethacin, naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), piroxicam (Feldene), and others.These medicines may affect blood clotting and could cause serious bleeding in your stomach or intestines. |
Avoid sudden changes in your diet. Vitamin K decreases the effects of warfarin. Large amounts of vitamin K are found in foods such as liver, broccoli, brussels sprouts, spinach, Swiss chard, coriander, collards, cabbage, and other green leafy vegetables. Do not change the amount of these foods in your diet without first talking to your doctor.
Avoid eating cranberries, drinking cranberry juice, or taking cranberry herbal products.
 | Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of this medication. |
Previous Chapter |
Next Chapter
| Last updated: | July 17, 2008 |
|---|
© 2007, Cerner Multum, INC. Version: 5.02.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, Use of Content Agreement and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
