will any of the new anti-coagulant meds be good for mechanical heart valve patients?
i have a st. Jude heart valve since July 05 ... and take warfarin daily .. have to be checked weekly because my INR is up and down. Have to be careful with everything I eat and don't eat healthier foods because of the vitamin K content which then puts me on more meds for cholesterol... an anticoagulant that doesn't conflict with food and other meds would improve the quality of those of our lives suffering with the warfarin/coumadin dilema.
thanks
d. simon,
Thanks for your question.
At this time warfarin (Coumadin) is the gold standard for "full" anticoagulation for patients with blood clots, certain cardiac arrhythmias, and mechanical heart valves. As you've pointed out, monitoring the therapy is necessary as levels can vary and be affected by dietary factors, especially leafy green vegetables.
There are other medications being studied. One in particular that is very promising does not require any testing for monitoring, yet provides "full" anticoagulation. Until this drug is released, you have to stay with the warfarin.
You can still eat healthy foods and use warfarin, as long as your intake of the foods that can affect the level of warfarin activity is consumed on a consistent basis. Also, there are other healthy foods to choose from that will not affect your coagulation status. Please review this website for dietary tips. Another suggestion is a consultation with a nutritionist for guidance.
I hope this information has been helpful.
Best wishes.
Martin Cane, M.D.
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