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Warfarin is used to prevent blood clots from forming or growing larger. It is often prescribed for patients with certain types of irregular heartbeat, or after a heart attack or heart valve replacement surgery. It works by stopping the formation of substances that cause clots.
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Although side effects from warfarin are not common, they can occur. Warfarin may turn your urine red-orange; this effect is harmless. If you think your urine contains blood, call your provider immediately. Tell your provider if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- Headache
- Upset stomach
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Skin rash
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your provider immediately:
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Black or bloody stools
- Blood in the urine
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Alert your provider and pharmacist if you are allergic to warfarin, aspirin, tartrazine (a yellow dye in some medications and processed foods), or any other drugs.
Many medications interfere with the effectiveness of warfarin, so be sure to tell your provider every medication that you take, including nonprescription medications and herbal products. Do not take any new medications or herbs without talking to your provider.
Tell your provider if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking warfarin, call your provider.
If you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the provider or dentist that you are taking warfarin. Your provider may tell you to stop taking warfarin 3 days before your procedure.
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