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No Evidence of Cranberry/Coumadin Interaction

Q. Recently I had to increase my dose of warfarin by one mg. On the label it said avoid cranberry juice but I’ve not seen this on previous warfarin prescriptions. I have atrial fibrillation and that is why I take the anticoagulant.

A. Warfarin (Coumadin) is a blood thinner that prevents blood clots that may lead to a stroke. The dose is critical as too little medicine may permit a blood clot to form while too much could lead to hemorrhaging.

Many foods and drugs interact with warfarin. Several years ago there was a warning that cranberry juice might be among them. Anecdotal reports suggested that cranberry juice might increase the effectiveness of warfarin and cause bleeding.

A review in the American Journal of Medicine (May, 2010) analyzed data from randomized clinical trials and concluded that cranberry juice does not pose a threat when consumed in moderation. Cranberry capsules or concentrate may be another matter. Periodic monitoring is advised for anyone on warfarin.

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About the Author
Terry Graedon, PhD, is a medical anthropologist and co-host of The People’s Pharmacy radio show, co-author of The People’s Pharmacy syndicated newspaper columns and numerous books, and co-founder of The People’s Pharmacy website. Terry taught in the Duke University School of Nursing and was an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Anthropology. She is a Fellow of the Society of Applied Anthropology. Terry is one of the country's leading authorities on the science behind folk remedies..
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