| Abstract |
Warfarin is widely used around the world for the prevention and treatment of
thrombosis and venothromboembolism. Consequently, anticoagulation is
monitored by measurement of the international normalized ratio (INR), and
warfarin dose is adjusted to maintain the INR within a target range, between 2
to 3 for atrial fibrillation and 2.5 to 3.5 for mitral valve replacement patients.
Despite its efficacy, warfarin has many shortcomings. One of the drawbacks
of warfarin use is the complexity of its dosing. This is due to the ability of
warfarin to interact with many commonly use drugs, herbs, lifestyle changes
and foods, which subsequently will augment or lessen its anticoagulation
effects
Here, we have developed the ‘WarCalc: Warfarin Dosing Calculator’ that
helps clinical pharmacist, medical practitioner to accurately perform warfarin
dosage adjustment and conduct consultation session efficiently. Combining
with dosage recommendation on weekly basis together with the common drug
interaction database, the benefit of anticoagulation therapy will be maximized
thus enhance the patient care services during consultation. |