You are taking Warfarin to prevent blood clots from forming. The more you know

about Warfarin, the better you will be able to participate in managing your

treatment. This booklet covers many safety issues that you must know about

while taking this medication.

What is Warfarin?

Warfarin is an anticoagulant. Anti means against, and coagulant means

causing the blood to clot. Warfarin helps prevent blood clots from forming in

your blood vessels. It can also help keep any clots you have from getting larger.

Blood clots are dangerous because they can slow blood flow to your heart or

brain. A blood clot may break off and travel to your lungs, brain, or heart.

How do I take my Warfarin?

When taking Warfarin:

Take it at the same time each day and only once a day.

Use a daily pillbox to keep track of your doses.

If you forget to take the prescribed dose of Warfarin at the scheduled

time, the dose should be taken as soon as possible on the same day.

You should not take the missed dose by doubling the daily dose to make

up for missed doses. Do not take a double dose!

Always tell your health care provider about each missed dose.

How do

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