Warfarin side effects include hemorrhage, necrosis, decreased bone density, and purple toe syndrome. These are often caused by interactions with medications and certain foods. Bleeding is the most common side effect, occurring in up to 2.7% of cases. Necrosis mainly affects the skin and limbs, while osteoporosis increases the risk of bone fractures. Purple toe syndrome is rare and causes blue or purple discoloration in the feet. Close monitoring is necessary to ensure safe and adequate dosage.
Side effects of warfarin include hemorrhage, necrosis, decreased bone density, and purple toe syndrome. These side effects are often caused by warfarin interacting with common medications and certain foods. The side effects of warfarin must be closely monitored to ensure that its dosage is adequate and safe. During the early stages of warfarin treatment, daily blood tests of the patient may be required. The main goal of this test is to ensure that the warfarin is not causing the patient to bleed.
Bleeding is one of the most common side effects of warfarin, occurring in up to 2.7% of cases. A physician should always weigh the benefits against the risks of bleeding before prescribing warfarin. Specific examples of bleeding from warfarin include bruising, coughing up blood, nose bleeds, and blood in the urine. The risk of bleeding is further increased when warfarin is combined with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antiplatelet drugs. Hemodialysis patients and the elderly are at increased risk of bleeding while taking warfarin.
Necrosis is one of the rare side effects of warfarin that mainly affects the skin and limbs. It is more likely to occur in patients who lack protein C, another blood thinner that requires vitamin K. Warfarin initially reduces the level of protein C in the blood more rapidly than it reduces clotting factors. This can lead to massive blood clots, which can cause necrosis and gangrene. Patients at risk of warfarin necrosis typically receive heparin in combination with warfarin.
A reduction in bone density, also known as osteoporosis, can also be one of the side effects of warfarin. A 1999 study involving 572 women taking warfarin showed an increase in rib and spine fractures. Another study of males in 2006 associated warfarin use for at least one year with a 60 percent increased risk of bone fractures due to osteoporosis. The increased risk of osteoporosis from warfarin may be due to the need for vitamin K in the formation of certain bone proteins.
Purple toe syndrome is one of the rare side effects of warfarin. The main symptom is a blue or purple discoloration that mostly affects the big toe, but can also occur on other parts of the feet. Purple toe syndrome typically occurs within eight weeks of starting warfarin treatment. The probable cause of purple toe syndrome is cholesterol deposits in the skin of the feet.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
