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Ask Dr. Stephan Moll
These questions have been submitted by folks on the mailing list and answered by Dr. Moll, Director of the Thrombophilia Program at the Carolina Cardiovascular Biology Center, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, UNC Chapel Hill (North Carolina, USA). Why am I doing this?
25. Coumadin® (and other coumarin drugs) - long-term use
Last Updated: 1/1/2004
Q: "I was told I'll need to be on coumadin for life. Are there any additional steps I need to take
to ensure good health while on coumadin? Any research going on for people who will be on coumadin for over 20 years?"
A: No additional steps are needed.
Good INR control is the key issue to minimize the risk of bleeding with warfarin (= coumadin) and other coumarin drugs (see Q/A 26). There are no known long-term risks of taking coumarin drugs (such as coumadin) other than the risk of bleeding and the side effects that one may also see with short-term use. Long-term coumarin drug use does not damage the liver and does not lead to coumarin resistance with ever increasing dose requirements. Patients on long-term coumarin drugs should keep stay informed about the "blood-thinning" drugs in development, such as Exanta® (see Q/A 2).
The information contained on the this web site is provided for your general information only. I am not a doctor and I do not give medical advice or engage in the practice of medicine. I do not recommend any particular treatment/trial for individuals, and in all cases recommend that you consult your physician or local treatment center before pursuing any course of treatment. It is up to you, as a consumer to find out if these trials posted are something you want to participate in. I just post the information.