Blood clotting or coagulating is a natural process that plays an important role in wound healing. However, in certain cases, blood clotting can cause dangerous blood flow blockage and lead to heart attack or stroke. Warfarin sodium is a type of anticoagulant or blood thinner medication designed to prevent the formation of blood clots. It is available as a prescription medication and poses side effects, some of which may be serious.
Bleeding
Warfarin sodium blocks the blood-clotting process; thus, severe bleeding is a major risk of use. Cuts or injuries take longer to stop bleeding, particularly during the first few weeks of treatment with warfarin sodium, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Individuals over the age of 65 and those with a history of bleeding problems or bleeding disorders, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, aneurysm, cancer or anemia are at an increased risk of bleeding problems due to warfarin sodium use.
Necrosis or Gangrene
Warfarin sodium may lead to necrosis or gangrene, which is the death of body tissue or skin. If not treated promptly, tissue death may cause irreversible damage, leading to the need for an amputation or removal of the affected area or body part. Signs of necrosis or gangrene include darkened-colored skin, ulcers, temperature changes of the skin and unusual and sudden pain that is severe. The toes are particularly at risk of necrosis or gangrene.
Gastrointestinal and Skin Side Effects
Warfarin sodium may cause a variety of different side effects in different parts of the body, but the most common involves the gastrointestinal system and skin. Gastrointestinal side effects include gas and bloating, nausea and diarrhea, loss of appetite, mild stomach pain and vomiting. Side effects of the skin may include itching, rash or hives, pale-colored skin, hair loss, yellowing of the skin and feelings of numbness, burning or tingling on the skin, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information.
Pregnancy-related Side Effects
Warfarin sodium is classified by the United States Food and Drug Administration as a pregnancy category X medication. Pregnant women or women planning on becoming pregnant should not take warfarin sodium, as it may cause serious birth defects or death of the unborn baby. Possible birth defects include mental retardation, low birth weight, nasal deformities, blindness and other central nervous system abnormalities.
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