Patient was educated on foods that enhance the actions of Coumadin as follows:
- There are some food sources that potentiate the actions of Coumadin and thereby, increase the risk for bleeding.
- Alcohol can compete with Coumadin for protein binding and take up some sites on protein for binding. This leaves freer form of Coumadin available for anticoagulation, increasing the risk for bleeding. So, alcohol consumption along with this medication is strongly discouraged.
- Cranberry juice and grapefruit juice inhibit the metabolism of Coumadin in the body and so, more Coumadin is available in the body for longer duration of time and so, result in increased anticoagulation effects of Coumadin and increased risk for bleeding. So, cranberry juice and grapefruit juice are strongly discouraged for patients taking Coumadin.
- Excessive amounts of ginger and garlic in the food are also known to increase the effects of Coumadin.
