|  | Conditions Treatments | Blood Disorders

Alcohol Effects on Coumadin

Coumadin is a blood thinner used to prevent a number of dangerous health problems. It can have side effects, and drinking alcohol may increase them. Coumadin patients are advised to drink moderately if they can't avoid alcohol altogether. Be sure to discuss your alcohol consumption with your doctor before taking Coumadin.

  1. What is Coumadin?

    • According to Drugs.com, Coumadin is a blood thinner used to help prevent strokes, heart attacks and blood clots. It blocks the formation of blood clotting factors, reducing the formation of blood clots in the body.

    Side Effects of Coumadin

    • Coumadin can cause a number of side effects. Drugs.com states that these can include nausea, gas, easy bruising, fever, headache, stomach pain and hair loss.

    Coumadin and Alcohol

    • Drugs.com advises that if you are taking Coumadin, you should avoid alcoholic beverages. Alcohol increases the chance of experiencing side effects.

      According to eMedTV, chronic alcohol abuse or binge drinking, which is drinking five drinks or more in a sitting, may cause intestinal bleeding while decreasing the positive effects of the drug.

    Moderate Drinking

    • The Cleveland Clinic advises that if you do drink on Coumadin, it should be moderate. Drink no more than 10 ounces of wine or 2 ounces of spirits a day. If you're drinking beer, keep to no more than 24 ounces a day.

    Coumadin and Liver Disease

    • Drugs.com points out that if you are taking Coumadin, tell your doctor if you have a history of liver disease. Chronic alcohol abuse causes a number of liver problems, including fatty liver disorder and alcoholic hepatitis. If you drink heavily, you should ask your doctor about getting a liver function test before starting the drug.

    Talk To a Medical Professional

    • If you're concerned about Coumadin's interaction with alcohol or are starting a drug regimen and have questions about your drinking, be sure to talk to your doctor. He will advise you about interactions that may occur when you are on the drug. If you have a problem with alcohol abuse, he will help you develop a strategy to overcome your addiction.

Blood Disorders - Related Articles