Patient was educated on contraindications for using Coumadin as follows:
- Coumadin is mainly metabolized by the liver. Individuals with history of compromised liver function cannot metabolize Coumadin and this can lead to increased blood levels of Coumadin for longer duration, leading to toxicity and episodes of bleeding. Coumadin should be avoided or used with extreme caution in such individuals.
- Coumadin is mainly excreted in the urine. Individuals with history of compromised renal functions tend to retain the drug in the circulation longer, thus resulting in toxicity and episodes of bleeding. Coumadin should be avoided or used with extreme caution in such individuals.
- Coumadin should be avoided in individuals taking NSAIDs and other blood thinners. Taking Coumadin along with NSAIDs or other blood thinners concurrently can significantly increase the risk for bleeding episodes.
