DOI: 10.21276/sajp.2018.7.1.8

Pages: 54-59

Warfarin is a coumarin derivative that is used to inhibit thromboembolic events. Calcium reabsorption and urinary calcium excretion can be affected by the administration of diuretics, which is an important part of the blood clotting process. The aim of the present study is to explore how diuretics (Furosemide and Hydrochlrothiazide) affect the function of the coagulation cascade in patients using warfarin as an anticoagulant agent through the assessment of Prothrombin time (PT) and international normalized ration (INR) in Queen Alia Heart Institute at the Royal Medical Services (RMS) in Jordan/Amman. A retrospective study will be performed in Queen Alia Heart Institute. Data will be gathered by reviewing the medical records of patients using warfarin (5mg). Of the total 314 patients enrolled in the study, 215 (68.4%) were males. The mean age of the study participants was 67.5 ± 5.6 years. Calcium concentration was significantly reduced in patients taking furosemide with warfarin (group 1) in comparison with those who were taking HCTZ in addition to warfarin (group 2). Furthermore, PT and INR were significantly elevated in patients with group 1 when compared with those in group 2. This study revealed that the combination of hydrochlorothiazide with warfarin decrease the anticoagulant activity of warfarin. Therefore, specialists should be attentive of possible interactions and monitor patients’ INR closely.