Warfarin is an anticoagulant. This means that it stops the blood from clotting. It is used to treat and prevent certain health conditions.

Deep vein thrombosis

Warfarin can be used to treat and prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) - blood clots in the veins of the legs.

Pulmonary embolism

Warfarin can be used to treat and prevent pulmonary embolism - a blood clot in the lungs.

Transient ischaemic attack (TIA)

Warfarin can be used as treatment following a transient ischaemic attack (TIA). A TIA is sometimes called a mini-stroke.

Blood clots

Warfarin can be used to prevent blood clots in other parts of the body if you are at an increased risk.

For example, if you have rheumatic heart disease, atrial fibrillation or after insertion of prosthetic (artificial) heart valves.

Your prescription

The length of time you will take warfarin for will depend on the condition it has been prescribed for. If you are not sure, ask your doctor.

You will also be given a yellow 'Oral Anticoagulant Therapy' booklet that explains your anticoagulant treatment.