warfarin

noun

war·​fa·​rin ˈwȯr-fə-rən 

: a crystalline anticoagulant coumarin derivative C₁₉H₁₆O₄ that inhibits the production of prothrombin by vitamin K and is used as a rodent poison and in medicine

also : its sodium salt C₁₉H₁₅NaO₄ used especially in the prevention or treatment of thromboembolic disease

Examples of warfarin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

People at risk for vitamin K deficiency are those with underlying health conditions that impair the gut's absorption of vitamin K or who take certain vitamin K-interfering medications, such as antibiotics or warfarin. —Colleen Doherty, Verywell Health, 13 Feb. 2025

Consult your healthcare provider before taking ibuprofen and warfarin together.12 Summary Ibuprofen is a medication that helps reduce pain, fevers, and swelling. —Femi Aremu, Verywell Health, 3 Feb. 2025

Anticoagulants, including warfarin, chlorophacinone, and diphacinon, kill mice by thinning their blood. —Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Jan. 2025

Any sudden changes in vitamin K intake can increase or decrease the blood clotting effects of warfarin. —Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph, Health, 8 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (its patentee) + coumarin

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

warfarin

noun

war·​fa·​rin ˈwȯr-fə-rən 

: a crystalline anticoagulant coumarin derivative C₁₉H₁₆O₄ related to dicumarol that inhibits the production of prothrombin by vitamin K and is used as a rodent poison and in medicine

also : its sodium salt C₁₉H₁₅NaO₄ used especially in the prevention or treatment of thromboembolic disease see coumadin