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

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

Both turmeric and garlic can have blood-thinning effects, which may interact with blood-thinner medications like Coumadin (warfarin) and increase the risk of bleeding. —Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Rdn, Ld, Health, 25 Nov. 2024

Ginkgo Biloba and Blood-Thinning Medication Ginkgo biloba supplements can also increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood-thinning medications like warfarin or aspirin.12 9. —Alyssa Hui-Anderson, Verywell Health, 31 Oct. 2024

For example, ginkgo can interact with medications that prevent blood clots, like warfarin and aspirin.22 Ask a healthcare provider or pharmacist about potential interactions before using any memory-boosting supplement. —Emmanuella Ogbonna, Health, 23 Oct. 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