Side Effects of Warfarin (Coumadin®)

When taking warfarin it is important to be aware of the possible side effects of this medication. You may or may not experience these side effects. You will have frequent blood draws while you are taking warfarin. These tests are to measure your INR, which is monitored to limit side effects and make sure your warfarin is working.

When your INR is too high, you may be at risk for bleeding. Since warfarin “thins” your blood to prevent clots, too much can make your blood too thin. When this happens, you may notice bleeding in several ways: nosebleed (sometimes called epistaxis), bleeding gums when you brush your teeth, easy bruising, or just prolonged bleeding from a cut or wound. Other less common signs of bleeding include blood in your urine or stool, as well as vomiting up blood. It is important to let your doctor or anticoagulation clinic know if you experience any of these side effects. Some tips to help you limit accidental bleeding include:

* Use a soft toothbrush.
* Shave with an electric razor instead of a blade.
* Try to avoid falls or dangerous activities.

If you do experience a bleed from a cut or wound, try to stop the bleeding by applying pressure and elevating the area. If the bleeding does not stop within 20 minutes, call your doctor or go to the emergency room.

When your INR is too low, you may be at risk for a clot. Clots can happen in your leg (called a DVT, or deep vein thrombosis), your lung (a PE, or pulmonary embolism), or in your brain (a stroke). Some symptoms may include leg pain, shortness of breath, or a severe headache. Call your doctor immediately if you have any of these symptoms.

Other rare side effects include skin necrosis (red or black marks), allergy, or joint pain. Report any severe symptoms to your doctor.

Inform your doctors, dentist, and pharmacist that you are on this medicine. You may have to stop taking it for a few days before a dental or surgical procedure. It is a good idea to wear a medical alert bracelet identifying that you take warfarin.

For more information, you may visit:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/tutorials/coumadinintroduction/htm/index.htm

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