Coumadin is a brand name for the prescription blood-thinning drug warfarin. This oral medication is used to prevent and treat transient ischemic attacks or mini-strokes, strokes, heart attacks, ischemia or reduced blood flow to the heart, and blood clots in the body. It is prohibited to take vitamin K2 supplements concurrently with Coumadin due to serious interactions. Vitamin K is essential for the liver to produce natural clotting factors, but Warfarin affects how the liver uses this vitamin to decrease blood clotting. If your doctor prescribes Coumadin to you, discuss the guidelines for using this medication and how to avoid taking excess vitamin K in the diet.
Step 1
Talk to your doctor about how to safely take Coumadin. This potent medication can cause side effects and interactions with vitamin K and other supplements and drugs. Coumadin is taken as both an oral tablet and as an injection. Most patients are given the tablet form of this anti-coagulation drug.
Step 2
Fill your prescription of Coumadin and carefully read the instructions for this drug. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand any of the guidelines. This medication can be taken with or without food. It is recommended that Coumadin be taken in the evening as blood clotting factors change during the day.
Step 3
Take the dosage of Coumadin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Dosages of this medication vary according to its particular use and the patient's blood clotting health. Your doctor may change your daily dose of Coumadin after assessing your regular blood tests.
Step 4
Have your blood tested as recommended by your doctor. It is important to have your your blood clotting factors monitored closely by your doctor while you are on Coumadin. If you miss a scheduled appointment, book another blood test immediately.
Step 5
Continue taking Coumadin for the duration prescribed by your doctor. Do not cease taking this medication on your own as it can cause unwanted effects such as heart disease and stroke. Your doctor will either determine if it safe for you to stop Coumadin or change your medication.
Tips and Warnings
- Limit the amount of vitamin K you eat while you are taking Coumadin. Though regular amounts of vitamin K are safe, high doses found in supplements and in foods rich with vitamin K should not be ingested. These include leafy green vegetables and some vegetable cooking oils. The daily recommended allowance of vitamin K is 120mcg for men and 90mcg for women.
- Coumadin affects bleeding time and can lead to potentially serious side effects. Avoid contact sports and other activities that can lead to injury while you are on this medication. Report to your doctor any abnormal bleeding from the nose, a cut, or the gums. If you find blood in vomit, urine or bowel movements or if you have unexplained bruising tell your doctor immediately. The required blood test helps assess if the blood-thinning activity of Coumadin is too high for you.
Things You'll Need
- Coumadin prescription medication
