APO WARFARIN, 2.5MG, TABLET

Common uses

This medication thins the blood and prevents blockage of blood vessels. It acts on certain blood elements involved in the coagulation process. Typically, it is used for the prevention of blood clots or for deep vein thrombosis (blood clots). It may also be used to assist in the treatment of heart attacks. It requires several days to take effect.

How to use this medication

Because this medication thins the blood, prolonged bleeding may occur if you injure yourself. Be careful when using sharp instruments or when you practice any activity or sport that may result in serious injury. The use of a soft-bristled toothbrush and an electric razor is recommended. Report any excessive or unusual bleeding to your doctor. Signs indicating that the dosage may be too high include:

• the presence of black or reddish stools;
• red or dark brown urine;
• bruising that occurs easily;
• gums bleeding while brushing your teeth;
• in women, abnormally abundant and prolonged menstrual bleeding.

Contact a doctor immediately if you notice sudden unusual headaches, weakness of an arm or leg, crooked mouth or difficulty speaking.

The dosage of this medicine is adjusted according to the result of your blood test (INR). Regular blood tests are therefore essential. Advise the personnel taking the sample if you have forgotten to take one or more doses. While undergoing this treatment, do not consume alcohol, make any significant dietary changes, or take any medication containing acetylsalicylic acid (ASA, e.g., Aspirin) unless prescribed by your doctor.

This medication is typically used only once a day. However, your pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. It must be used regularly and continuously to maintain its beneficial effects. Be sure to keep an adequate supply on hand.

If you forget a dose, contact your pharmacist. This medication may be taken with or without food.

Possible side effects

Aside from the risk of bleeding, this product has few side effects. If you think this medication may be causing side effects, talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

Storage information

As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed of safely.

Nutritional impact

Vitamin K can modify the effect of your oral anticoagulant. As it is obtained in the food you consume, you need to have a well-balanced diet and avoid radical changes of your diet. You do not have to eliminate every food that contains vitamin K, nor is there an ideal quantity of vitamin K to strive for. The secret is in a stable diet. Try to keep your vitamin K intake as stable as possible. If you are already fond of vitamin K-rich foods (e.g., broccoli, green cabbage, Brussels sprouts, spinach, liver, colza and soya oil, lentils, green tea, etc.), continue eating them in reasonable amounts, alternating with other dietary choices..

Additional information

Taking this medication during pregnancy may be harmful for the baby. Women of childbearing potential should use an effective contraceptive method.

Pregnant women should not use this product. If you're planning a pregnancy or become pregnant, contact your family doctor. Pregnant contacts should also be protected from exposure to the medication.

Always tell health care professionals you are visiting (for example, pharmacist, doctor, nurse or dentist) that you are taking this medicine. If you need surgery, you must notify the doctor who will perform the procedure. You may be asked to stop the medication for a few days. In this case, ask about how to start it again.

Seek immediate medical attention following a severe fall, especially if you hit your head.

Blood donation is usually refused during this treatment.

This medication may interact with other medications or supplements, sometimes significantly. Many interactions, however, may be dealt with by a dosage adjustment or a change in medication schedule. Check with your pharmacist before using this medication in combination with any other medications (including non-prescription products), vitamins or natural products.

General information

When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:

• Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
• If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
• If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
• The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.

It is also strongly recommended that you keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take and carry it with you at all times. This could be useful if you have to see a health professional or need emergency care.

Keep all your medications out of the reach of children and pets and return any unused or expired medications to the pharmacy for proper disposal.