A Descriptive Report of Bleeding Complications Secondary to Warfarin Therapy

Abstract

Purpose

This study identified factors that contributed to bleeding complications associated with warfarin therapy that were documented as adverse drug reactions (ADRs).

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed using the Medical Records Department's “E” code list of anticoagulant-related ADRs. Descriptive statistics were used to identify common factors associated with bleeding complications related to warfarin use.

Results

Patients 60 years of age or older experienced 78% of all events; a majority (81%) of reports involved the presence of comorbid conditions such as congestive heart failure, carcinoma, or sepsis. A supratherapeutic INR was documented for 75% of patients with anticoagulant-related ADRS.

Conclusions

Age, comorbid conditions, and anticoagulation intensity were identified as possible factors contributing to documented ADRs associated with warfarin therapy.

Keywords

anticoagulation therapy adverse drug reactions warfarin

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