Cardiac Medications

ANTICOAGULANTS
TYPES:	Coumadin (Warfarin)
BASIC ACTION:	"Blood thinner" Prolongs the time it takes for blood to clot
USES:	Prevents and/or helps dissolve blood clots
POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS:	Prolonged bleeding time Hemorrhage (Bleeding in excessive amounts) Bruising Nausea, vomiting Bloating, gas Diarrhea Rash
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:	Blood tests will be taken frequently at first to judge the effectiveness of the drug. Take medication at the same time each day. Do not stop taking this medication without consultation with physician. Be aware that your skin may bruise more easily with anticoagulants. Call physician immediately if any of the following danger signs occur: unusual bleeding, nose bleeds or other bleeding that is hard to stop, coughing up blood, or large, severe, multiple bruises. Apply firm pressure immediately, if cut oneself. Call the doctor without delay, if the bleeding does not subside within a few minutes. Consult the doctor before taking any aspirin-containing products, or other nonprescription drugs.