Warfarin is the generic name of this drug, Coumadin is the brand name. Warfarin actually thins out the blood so that the clots do not accumulate in the bloodstream. Useful in treating heart attacks and strokes, it is a very important and much needed medication. Along with positive aspects of the drug, negative aspects exist as well. Bleeding much easier and more quickly is a side effect of Coumadin based on personal medical history. Medical situations like kidney disease, intestinal bleeding, cancer, or severe heart disease are some of those situations that influence this type of bleeding.
An individual must make any other doctor seen aware of the status that they are on Coumadin. Along with the medical conditions listed above, there are things that may restrict the use of Coumadin such as blood in the stools, coughing up blood, head injuries, and alcoholism. This is not an extensive list but alcoholism presents a major problem when Coumadin needs to be administered. One drink per day is indicated to be acceptable when combining warfarin and alcohol. However, any indication of alcoholism can be a major problem when taking Coumadin. The actual interaction of the two drugs can cause the opposite effect and an individual can end up increasing the chances of such things as heart attacks and blood clots.
Coumadin thins the blood and alcohol dilates the veins and capillaries that can cause major problems with strokes. A decision has to be made whether drinking alcohol is more important than getting healthier using Coumadin. A temporary restriction is certainly worth the effort knowing the risks that are involved with combining these two drugs.
It is a medically documented fact that alcohol does alter the effectiveness of Coumadin. Alcohol may not only affect the intent of the drug but also the side effects that may come with its use. Liver disease is one of the situations caused by abuse of alcohol. This condition will affect whether or not Coumadin can be consumed. Coumadin and alcohol do not mix and some consequential situations resulting from alcohol abuse may necessitate a liver test.
Any and all concerns should be addressed to the medical professional including the amount of alcohol allowed, if any at all. Strategy may be necessary if this is a weak area for an individual. Considering that some individuals may only drink at parties or events, overdoing alcohol consumption even in these instances can still be very dangerous. The binging may certainly cause the problems that normally are influenced by full-blown alcoholism.
Coumadin needs to be effectively administered with the correct dosage. Drinking clouds the judgment and impairs the ability to handle certain things. Being unaware of the effects of certain alcoholic drinks may present a problem after the fact. Combining Coumadin and alcohol has too many risks that could cause not only immediate problems but also future problems. Knowing that this combination could put a person at significant risk for strokes, heart attacks, and other serious medical conditions should be incentive to be responsible and use self-control. Moderation is certainly a key factor in all things but adhering to total restriction may be necessary for some