What is Warfarin Poisoning?
Warfarin poisoning can happen either by accidentally swallowing rat poison that contains warfarin-like substances or by taking too much warfarin medicine used to prevent blood clots. Warfarin works by stopping the liver from making proteins needed for blood to clot.
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Symptoms
- Bleeding that can be serious or life threatening
- Bleeding may be internal or from places like the gums or nose
- Symptoms usually appear around 24 hours after swallowing the poison
How Is Warfarin Poisoning Treated?
- The stomach is emptied if the patient arrives early.
- Activated charcoal is given at a dose of 50 g for adults, and 25 g for children (up to 50 g if poisoning is severe).
- Phytomenadione (vitamin K1) is given slowly through an IV at a dose of 5 mg to help the blood clot properly again.
- Supportive treatment includes giving intravenous fluids, blood transfusions, or fresh frozen plasma if there is active bleeding.
Important Notes
- Poisoning with rat poison may need longer treatment with vitamin K.
- Close monitoring is essential to manage bleeding and recovery.
