Coumadin is an anticoagulant, a medication that prevents thrombosis.  Coumadin is prescribed by healthcare providers to treat and prevent thrombosis.  It does not dissolve a thrombosis, but may keep it from getting bigger or traveling to another area in your body.

Dosing, Administration and Monitoring

Coumadin is taken by mouth, once a day.  The dose is based on the patient’s weight and lab testing that looks at how fast it takes for the blood to clot.  This test is called INR.   Lab tests will tell healthcare providers if the INR level is good enough for treatment.  Blood samples to check INR levels are drawn frequently for dose adjustments.  This medication needs to be given on a regular schedule.  If a dose is missed, it can affect the drug level.

Side Effects

  • Bleeding
  • Upset stomach
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea

 

Considerations

Coumadin increases the risk for bleeding. Due to this, it is important to discuss the following treatments with a hematology provider before they take place so excessive bleeding can be prevented:

  • Shots into the muscle
  • All surgeries
  • Dental work that is more than a cleaning

 

Due to the increased risk for bleeding, the following medications should be avoided because they also increase the risk of bleeding

  • Aspirin
  • Aspirin-containing products
  • Ibuprofen
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS)

 

Due to the increased risk of bleeding, injuries to the head, neck, chest, belly or spine can be very serious, possibly life-threatening. If injuries to these areas occur, contact your hematology provider or go to the nearest emergency room.

Someone taking Coumadin should call the doctor or go to the emergency room if any of the following happen:

  • Nosebleed lasting longer than 15 minutes
  • Bleeding gums
  • Heavy periods
  • Urine that is red, orange or looks like Coca-cola
  • Chest pain or shortness of breath
  • Leg swelling or pain
  • If you throw up and it looks like coffee grounds
  • Bad headache
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Blood in poop
  • Numbness or weakness in one side
  • Trouble speaking

 

Foods that are high in Vitamin K can affect how Coumadin works. These foods do not need to be avoided, but similar amounts need to be eaten every week.

Teens and adults that take Coumadin need to take steps to prevent pregnancy (i.e. birth control).  If pregnancy occurs, your hematology provider must be told as soon as possible, as the safety of this medication while pregnant has not been determined.

 

What if excessive bleeding occurs?

Excessive bleeding from taking Coumadin can be reversed with Vitamin K.  Increased bruising or bleeding should be reported to your prescribing provider