A Patient's Guide to Using Coumadin

When will I have to take a protime test?
When you start taking Coumadin, you may have protime tests every day for a few days, then perhaps one time every week. This will help your healthcare provider give you the dosage of Coumadin that is right for you. Once your healthcare provider decides on that dosage, you will probably need protime tests less often.

What things may change my protime test results?
Several things, such as sickness, diet, other medications (prescription and over-the-counter), or physical activities may affect your PT/INR. Tell your healthcare provider about changes in your health, medications you are taking, or your lifestyle so he or she can adjust your dosage of Coumadin (Warfarin Sodium), if needed.

What else should I do?

Do's

• Do take your Coumadin exactly as your healthcare provider tells you.
• Do keep eating habits and activities similar every day.
• Do get your blood tested when you are supposed to.
• Do tell your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking (prescription and over-the-counter). Also ask your healthcare provider before you change, start, or stop taking any other medications.
• Do tell your healthcare provider when you get sick, get hurt, or get a cut that won't stop bleeding.
• Do look for signs of bleeding.
• Do tell anyone giving you medicine or dental care that you are taking Coumadin.
• Do refill your prescriptions according to your healthcare provider's orders.

What should I not do?

Dont's

• Do not take an extra pill to catch up.
• Do not take Coumadin (Warfarin Sodium) if you are pregnant or may become pregnant.
• Do not take any other medicines before asking your healthcare provider.

What should I avoid?
1. Avoid drastic changes in your dietary habits.
2. Avoid alcohol consumption.
3. Avoid any activity or sport that may result in a traumatic injury.