What should I watch for while taking warfarin?
Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. You will need to have your blood checked regularly to make sure you are getting the right dose of warfarin. The blood test that is used to monitor warfarin therapy is called the protime (PT) or INR. Your prescriber or health care professional will check your PT or INR and decide whether or not your dose of warfarin needs to be changed. When you first start warfarin, these tests are done frequently. Once the correct dose is determined and you take your medication properly, these tests can be done less often. While you are taking warfarin, carry an identification card with your name, the name and dose of medicine(s) being used, and the name and phone number of your prescriber or health care professional or person to contact in an emergency. You should discuss your diet with your prescriber or health care professional. Many foods contain high amounts of vitamin K, which can interfere with the effect of
