What precautions can you take against warfarin side effects?

To reduce your chance of developing warfarin side effects:

• Tell your doctor about any other medications or supplements you take. Many medications and supplements can have a dangerous interaction with warfarin. If you receive a new prescription from someone other than your usual doctor, ask if you'll need additional blood tests to make sure the new medication isn't affecting your blood clotting.
• Tell care providers you take warfarin before you have any medical or dental procedures. It's important to share this information even before minor procedures, such as vaccinations and routine dental cleanings. If you're going to have surgery, you may need to decrease or discontinue your warfarin dose at least five days before the procedure. Your doctor might prescribe a shorter acting blood thinner, heparin, while you're not taking warfarin.
• Avoid situations that increase your risk of injury. Contact sports and other activities that could result in head injury should be avoided. Tell your doctor if you are unsteady while walking or have a history of falling.
• Use safer hygiene and grooming products. A soft-bristle toothbrush, waxed dental floss and an electric razor for shaving can help prevent bleeding.
• Consider wearing a bracelet or carrying a card that says you take warfarin. This identification can be useful if emergency medical providers need to know what medications you take.
• Consider a warfarin sensitivity test. A significant number of people who take warfarin are at a higher risk of bleeding because their genes make them more sensitive to warfarin. If a family member experienced side effects from warfarin, talk to your doctor about taking a genetic warfarin sensitivity test. The test can determine if you have the genes that can increase your risk of bleeding.