Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone
Pulmonary Embolism, Thromboembolism ... show more
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DRUG STATUS
Approvals
UK(BNF)
Essential Medicine
NO
Teratogenicity
Definite
Pharmaceutical Class
Vitamin K Antagonist
Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone
Know More About This Medicine -
Click HereSummary
Acenocoumarol is a blood thinner used to prevent blood clots that can cause serious problems like strokes, heart attacks, and blockages in the lungs. Doctors prescribe it for people at risk of these clots, such as those with irregular heartbeats, a history of heart attacks, artificial heart valves or certain blood disorders.
Acenocoumarol works by blocking a vitamin K, which is needed to make proteins that help blood clot. This affects how the body absorbs the vitamin and changes how the body processes it. Most of the drug leaves the body through urine and stool.
For adults, doctors usually start with a daily dose between 2 and 4 milligrams of Acenocoumarol. The amount needed to keep blood thin can vary, so the daily dose might change to be between 1 and 8 milligrams.
Acenocoumarol can cause serious bleeding in many parts of the body like the stomach, brain, or kidneys. This bleeding can be life-threatening. Other side effects are less serious, such as skin rashes, feeling sick to your stomach, and hair loss.
Acenocoumarol is very dangerous to take while pregnant as it can harm the unborn baby. Serious bleeding is a risk, even death. Many other medicines can affect how well Acenocoumarol works, so it's vital to have regular blood tests, especially if you start or stop other medications.
Indications and Purpose
What is Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone used for?
Acenocoumarol and nicoumalone are blood thinners. They're used to prevent blood clots that can cause serious problems like strokes, heart attacks, and blockages in the lungs. Doctors prescribe them for people at risk of these clots, such as those with irregular heartbeats (atrial fibrillation), a history of heart attacks, artificial heart valves, or certain blood disorders. They can also help prevent clots from forming after a blood clot has already occurred.
How does Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone work?
Acenocoumarol is a blood thinner. It works by blocking a vitamin (vitamin K) needed to make proteins that help blood clot. This is done in two ways: it affects how the body absorbs the vitamin and changes how the body processes it. Most of the drug leaves the body through urine and stool. Older people have higher levels of the drug in their blood than younger people, even with the same dose. People with severe kidney or liver problems shouldn't take this medicine; those with mild to moderate problems need to be careful.
Is Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone effective?
Clinical evidence supports that acenocoumarol effectively reduces the risk of thromboembolic events when monitored properly through regular INR testing. Studies have shown its efficacy in managing conditions requiring anticoagulation therapy.
How does one know if Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone is working?
The effectiveness of acenocoumarol is monitored through regular INR tests, which should be conducted at least once a month after stabilization. Adjustments to dosage are made based on these results.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone?
Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone is a blood thinner. For adults, doctors usually start with a daily dose between 2 and 4 milligrams. The amount needed to keep blood thin can vary, so the daily dose might change to be between 1 and 8 milligrams. There's not much information on how much to give children.
How do I take Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone?
Take Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone as one pill at a time. Blood tests are very important to check the medicine's strength and adjust your dose. Don't drink cranberry juice because it might make the medicine too strong. If you have liver problems, limit how much alcohol you drink.
For how long do I take Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone?
Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone is a blood thinner. Doctors carefully adjust the dose based on regular blood tests to keep it at the right level. Treatment starts with a larger dose initially, then smaller, regular daily doses are given. How long you need to take it and the exact amount will depend on you and your health. You'll need blood tests at least once a month to check the medicine's effect.
How long does it take for Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone to start working?
The anticoagulant effect of acenocoumarol typically begins within 24 to 72 hours after starting treatment, but it may take several days to reach optimal therapeutic levels.
How should I store Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone?
Acenocoumarol/Nicoumalone don't need special storage; just keep them in a cool, dry place. They're good for three years after you buy them.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone?
Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone is a blood thinner. It's very dangerous to take while pregnant because it can harm the unborn baby. You shouldn't drink cranberry juice or much alcohol while on it. Serious bleeding is a risk, even death. Many other medicines can affect how well Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone works, so it's vital to have regular blood tests, especially if you start or stop other medications. You can breastfeed, but your baby needs to be watched closely.
Can I take Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone with other prescription drugs?
Acenocoumarol is a blood thinner. Taking it with certain other medicines or substances can make you bleed more easily, because they also thin the blood or stop blood clots from forming. This includes heparin (another blood thinner), medicines to prevent blood clots (like clopidogrel), ibuprofen and other pain relievers (NSAIDs), and even some antibiotics and cranberry juice. On the other hand, some things can make acenocoumarol less effective, meaning your blood might clot too easily. These include certain sleeping pills (barbiturates), birth control pills, some antibiotics (like rifampicin), vitamin E, and steroid medicines (corticosteroids). Because of these interactions, it's very important to have regular blood tests while taking acenocoumarol, especially if you start or stop taking other medications. This helps your doctor make sure your blood is thinning just the right amount.
Can I take Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone with vitamins or supplements?
Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone thins your blood. Some things can make it work better or worse. Taking too much vitamin K (more than 5mg) can make Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone less effective for several days. Glucosamine might make your blood too thin, while cranberry juice could also have the same effect. Babies whose mothers take Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone and breastfeed might need a small amount of vitamin K to prevent bleeding problems.
Can Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone be taken safely while pregnant?
Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone, a blood thinner, shouldn't be taken during pregnancy because it can cause birth defects. The medicine interferes with the baby's blood clotting, potentially leading to problems like bleeding after birth. While there aren't specific human studies on this medicine and pregnancy, the risk is too high to use it.
Can Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Acenocoumarol is a medicine the mother takes. A tiny bit passes into breast milk, but it's unlikely to hurt the baby. The mother needs regular blood tests to make sure her medicine is working correctly. The baby should also get a vitamin K supplement every week as a precaution. Before breastfeeding starts, it's a good idea to check the baby's blood to see how well their blood clots and how much vitamin K they have.
Is Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone safe for the elderly?
Older people (70 and up) often need less medicine than younger adults. Their bodies hold onto the medicine longer, so a smaller amount can still be effective. Because of this, doctors need to check their blood more often to make sure the medicine level is safe.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone?
Exercising while taking acenocoumarol is typically safe and can help improve overall health. However, individuals should listen to their bodies and consult their healthcare provider before starting any new exercise regimen to ensure it's appropriate for their health status while on this medication.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Acenocoumarol/nicoumalone?
Moderate alcohol consumption may increase the risk of bleeding when combined with acenocoumarol. It's best to consult your healthcare provider regarding alcohol use while on this medication.
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