What Is Warfarin Therapy?

Warfarin therapy is treatment with an anticoagulant medication to prevent blood clots in a patient at risk of clotting that may cause embolism. In embolism, a blood clot becomes stuck and blocks the flow of blood. This can lead to serious complications like stroke, injuries to tissues in the leg, or respiratory arrest. This therapy has to be pursued with care, as anticoagulant medications increase the risk of hemorrhage. The doctor needs to find a dose that limits clotting without putting the patient at undue risk.

This medication works by blocking the production of clotting factors in the liver. With fewer clotting factors in circulation, the patient's blood will not clot as readily. Throughout warfarin therapy, a doctor will need to perform regular blood tests. These tests determine clotting time and help the doctor decide if the patient needs a dosage adjustment. If she bleeds too freely, she needs to back off the dosage, while someone with signs of clotting problems may need a higher dosage.

In the course of warfarin therapy, patients must watch out for harmful interactions. High levels of vitamin K can make the drug less effective, and the patient needs to be careful about fresh fruits and vegetables with high levels of this vitamin. In addition, warfarin can interact adversely with medications that affect clotting, like aspirin. Before taking any new drug, the patient should make sure his doctor and pharmacist know about the warfarin. It is also advisable to carry a card or wear a medic alert bracelet to let care providers know which medications the patient is taking.

The biggest risk of warfarin therapy is hemorrhage. People who notice cloudy urine, bloody vomit or stool, or excessive bruising should talk to a doctor. It is important to get medical treatment after any kind of head injury, even if there is no sign of injury. It is possible to have a bleed inside the skull without being aware of it, and prompt treatment can address the bleed and prevent complications.

Patients may need warfarin therapy because of medical implants like heart valves, a past history of clotting problems, or other medical issues. When a doctor recommends this treatment, the patient should ask why it is recommended. The doctor will provide detailed instructions on how to use warfarin safely. Patients with any doubts or questions should bring them up, and if they have concerns about their ability to adhere to therapy, they should make sure the doctor is aware of them.