Robitussin & Warfarin

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Friday, October 12, 2007

PTINR.com Staff

Cold and flu season has arrived. Cough and cold medicines may represent a short term interaction with warfarin

Robitussin Cold/Cold or flu products may interact with warfarin (Coumadin ®). Patients who use Robitussin products may experience an increase in protime test results (INR value). Patients should check with their healthcare professional to obtain a list of cold and flu products that are safe to take when a patient is on warfarin. In addition to the Robitussin, the body’s metabolism and electrolytes are also compromised further affecting an INR test result.

Cough and cold medications represent short term use and normally do not result in dosage adjustments of warfarin. It is important patients report fever, fluid loss and extended symptoms as an INR test is likely in order.

Patients should consult their healthcare professional team before starting for stopping Robitussin. Increasing the testing frequency may be recommended to reduce the risk of bleeding associated with elevated INR test results.

Home INR monitoring helps patients test more frequently and monitor for surprise increases and decreases in INRs typical with cold and flu season.