Anticoagulants are drugs that slow down the blood clotting process. The objective is to prevent blood clotting within the circulation system. One of the most commonly used anticoagulants is warfarin.

Patients taking this kind of medicine need regular checks of the appropriate level of inhibition of blood clotting. They are given special instructions which must be followed while taking this medicine. Patients must also be aware of side effects, foods that may have interaction with warfarin, and other cautions for optimal benefit and reduction of risk.

To ensure proper treatment, Bumrungrad has a coordinated, multidisciplinary team of:

• Physicians
• Pharmacists
• Cardiac Clinical Nurse Coordinators

working together to determine the proper medication dosage.

• Atrial fibrillation
• Deep vein thrombosis and/or pulmonary embolism
• Certain types of stroke
• Certain artificial heart valves
• Some vascular devices

• Provide information about the anticoagulant (usually warfarin), instruction, and caution while taking this class of medicine
• Check blood test - INR (International Normalized Ratio) and adjust warfarin dosage
• Advise on the discontinuance of medicine if patient has to undergo a procedure that might cause bleeding (such as dental work or an operation)
• Refill anticoagulants
• Phone and e-mail information service regarding anticoagulants
• Handouts for the use of anticoagulants, and dispensing patient cards for patients who take them