Coumadin Therapy

Coumadin^® ( warfarin sodium) is a prescription anticoagulant, often described as a "blood thinner" (although it does not actually thin the blood). It is used to prevent and treat blood clots due to various causes.

 

This medication does not "dissolve" or break down blood clots -- it prevents them from forming. When used to treat a blood clot, Coumadin keeps the clot formation in check, allowing the body's natural processes to break down the clot.

 

During Coumadin therapy, your healthcare provider will monitor you closely on a regular basis (using a special blood test) to make sure you are responding well to the medication. While Coumadin can be a life-saving drug, unfortunately, it can also cause life-threatening side effects. Taking too little increases your risk for blood clots and strokes, and taking too much increases your risk for dangerous internal bleeding. Even people who have been on a steady Coumadin dosage for years require frequent monitoring.