Coumadin is an anticoagulant. Anti means against, and coagulation refers to blood clotting. An anticoagulant helps lower the chance of blood clots forming in your body. If your healthcare provider has prescribed Coumadin (Warfarin Sodium) for you, an INR test is recommended on a regular basis in our Coumadin Clinic. INR is performed with a simple blood test and will assist in determining safe and effective anticoagulation levels. Personal medication and diet will be adjusted accordingly and you will be given a clinic appointment for measurement of this medication.

Factors that Affect Warfarin
Many outside influences alter the effectiveness of warfarin. Once you start your anticoagulation therapy you must contact us any time you start, stop or change dose of any other medication. We will need to recheck your INR to see if adjustments are necessary. Vitamin K (usually found in green, leafy vegetables) can also change the dose requirements of warfarin. If your diet changes radically, please let us know as soon as possible. Alcohol can also affect the dose requirement; binge drinking should be avoided at all times. If you miss your dose or accidentally take more than prescribed, contact our office for instructions. Do not try to catch up or hold your dose on your own.

What to Look Out For
Rarely, warfarin can cause a rash. If a rash develops within one to two weeks of initiating therapy, call us. Some bruising is normal with warfarin, but a bruise that continues to spread over 24 hours needs attention. Call us for instructions. Bleeding from the mouth or nose, blood in your urine or stool (blood in the stool can be red or black) or unusual pain or swelling should be brought to our attention immediately. Do not ever stop your warfarin or alter your dose without contacting us. This can lead to bigger problems than the one you are experiencing. Please bring any other concerns to our attention, we are here to help you any way we can.

Remember
· Take your medication and have your INR checked as recommended
· Contact us with any medications changes, prescribed or over the counter
· Consistency in diet and daily activity helps maintain your prescribed level
· Contact our Anticoagulation Clinic with any questions or concerns you may have. We re here to help.
· Do not, ever, alter your dose without consulting our clinic.

The physicians at Columbus Cardiology Associates are dedicated to quality cardiovascular healthcare to our patients and the community we serve thru skilled talented staff, utilizing the most innovative technology. Please call our office at 706-323-5552 to schedule an appointment or if you have any questions.