Warfarin (Coumadin® / Jantoven®) Presented by Anticoagulation Team (ACT)

OBJECTIVES To provide house wide education to staff and patients To promote consistency in teaching the patients To reduce complications when patients receive warfarin (Coumadin/Jantoven)

What is warfarin (Coumadin® / Jantoven®)? Warfarin is an anticoagulant Anticoagulants help reduce the number of clots forming in blood. Warfarin is referred to as a “blood thinner,” however; it does not affect the thickness of your blood.

What is the difference between warfarin and Coumadin®/ Jantoven®? Coumadin®/Jantoven® are the brand names for warfarin They are all the same drug and will work the same way To avoid confusion, always get your warfarin refilled at the same pharmacy

Why do I need to take warfarin? There are many reasons people need to take warfarin. The most common reasons are: Previous heart attacks Atrial Fibrillation Previous clots in your legs or lung Heart valve replacement

How do I know it is working? The effect of warfarin is shown in blood tests The blood tests measure the INR (international normalized ratio), which tells how long it takes for your blood to clot The INR goal is usually between 2-3 or 2.5 – 3.5, however, your healthcare provider will determine your exact goal

How often do I need to get bloodwork? When you start warfarin your INR will be monitored at least once a week The healthcare provider that manages your warfarin will determine when you need to come in for blood work For your safety it is important not to miss these appointments

What affects my bloodwork (INR)? Illness, diet, beverages, supplements, medications (prescription and over-the-counter), and certain disease states may affect your INR Notify the healthcare provider managing your warfarin about any changes in your lifestyle, health, medications (including herbals and dietary supplements) at each visit. 

How do I take warfarin? Take warfarin at the same time each day, preferably later in the evening Take it exactly as prescribed If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose. Do NOT double up! Inform the healthcare provider managing your warfarin when a dose was missed as this may affect your blood levels

What are the risks of taking warfarin? The most common side effect is bleeding. Examples may include: Pink or brown colored urine Red or tarry black stool Heavier than usual menstrual flow Excessive bruising or bruises that get larger Cuts that won't stop bleeding after applying 20 minutes of continuous pressure  Vomiting blood or something that looks like coffee grounds Prolonged nasal bleeding

Should I only eat certain foods while I am on warfarin? The main thing to remember is keep your diet consistent!! Warfarin is balanced against the vitamin K in your diet (typically found in green, leafy vegetables). Varying the amount of foods high in Vitamin K may cause fluctuations in your INR. Keep your intake of alcoholic beverages consistent (ie: avoid binge drinking).

What are some foods high in Vit K? Moderate High High Brussels sprouts 1/2 Raw spinach Raw turnip greens Raw Broccoli Endive lettuce Romaine lettuce Above serving size is 1cup Kale Collards Swiss chard Parsley, raw Mustard greens Above serving size is ½ cup

How do I keep my intake of Vitamin K consistent? Know the foods that are moderate or high in Vitamin K and be consistent with eating them Report any significant changes in your diet or your weight to the healthcare provider managing your warfarin Check with the healthcare provider managing your warfarin before taking any vitamins or herbal supplements

What drugs interact with warfarin? Inform the healthcare provider managing your warfarin when starting or stopping any medications, vitamins, minerals, herbals, dietary supplements or dietary beverages Avoid medications for headaches, pain relief, and fever as they can increase the risk of bleeding. Some examples may include: ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin When pain/fever relief is needed, occasional use of Tylenol® (acetaminophen) is acceptable.

How do I identify that I am taking warfarin? Always carry an Emergency Medical Identification Card with a list of current medications and their dosages ID necklaces or bracelets that state you are taking warfarin are also available at local pharmacies The ID will alert healthcare professionals in the event you are unconscious