Coumadin is an anticoagulant. It is prescribed to:
- aid in the prevention of blood clots that may form in blood vessels anywhere in the body after a heart attack.;
- prevent and/or treat a blood clot that has formed within a blood vessel or in the lungs.;
- prevent and/or treat blood clots associated with certain heart conditions or replacement of a heart valve.;
- reduce the risk of death another heart attack or stroke after a heart attack.;
The most serious risks associated with Coumadin treatment are hemorrhage in any tissue or organ and, less frequently, the destruction of skin tissue cells or gangrene. The risk of hemorrhage usually depends on the dosage and length of treatment with Coumadin.
Hemorrhage and necrosis have been reported to result in death or permanent disability. Severe necrosis can lead to the removal of damaged tissue or amputation of a limb. Necrosis appears to be associated with blood clots located in the area of tissue damage and usually occurs within a few days of starting Coumadin treatment.
The objective of treatment with a blood-thinner is to control the blood-clotting process without causing severe bleeding, so that a clot does not form and cut off the blood supply necessary for normal body function. Therefore, it is very important that you take Coumadin exactly as prescribed by your doctor and that your doctor monitor your condition on a regular basis. Be especially careful to stick to the exact dosage schedule your doctor prescribes.
Effective treatment with minimal complications depends on your cooperation and communication with the doctor.
Do not take or discontinue any other medication unless directed to do so by your doctor. Avoid alcohol, salicylates such as aspirin, larger than usual amounts of foods rich in vitamin K, which can counteract the effect of Coumadin, or any other drastic change in diet.
Note that Coumadin often turns urine reddish-orange.
You should carry an identification card that indicates you are taking Coumadin.
- weakness;
- unexplained swelling;
- unexplained shock;
- shortness of breath;
- paralysis;
- numbness and tingling;
- muscle or other pain;
- low blood pressure;
- joint;
- headache;
- dizziness;
- difficult breathing or swallowing;
- chest;
- abdomen;
ADULTS
The administration and dosage of Coumadin must be individualized by your doctor according to your sensitivity to the drug.
A common starting dosage of Coumadin tablets for adults is 2 to 5 mg per day. Individualized daily dosage adjustments are based on the results of tests that determine the amount of time it takes for the blood clotting process to begin.
A maintenance dose of 2 to 10 mg per day is satisfactory for most people. The duration of treatment will be determined by your physician.
CHILDREN
Although Coumadin has been widely used in children below the age of 18, its safety and effectiveness for this purpose have not been formally established.
OLDER ADULTS
Low starting and maintenance doses are recommended for older people, as the drug tends to have a greater effect.
