Medications

Warfarin (Coumadin) is by far the most widely used anticoagulant medication.

• It is taken by mouth and thus does not work as quickly as heparin. It takes about 48 hours to become effective.
  
  
• The dosage of warfarin is important for successful treatment. Low doses may not be effective and high doses can cause bleeding. The dosage is adjusted on a daily basis for the first few days and then on a weekly basis. The dosage is adjusted by blood tests that assess clotting parameters.
  
  
• While taking warfarin, the patient may undergo frequent blood tests to check how long it takes for blood to clot (prothrombin time). The prothrombin time is reported in a standardized form called the international normalized ratio (INR). The healthcare provider will aim to keep the patient's INR within a certain range (usually between 2-2.5) by adjusting the dose of warfarin.

Viewer Comments & Reviews

Deep Vein Thrombosis - Symptoms Experienced

The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

For deep vein thrombosis, what were the symptoms and signs you experienced?

Anonymously share your comment to help others.
See 18 Viewer Comments & Reviews

Submit Your Review