Coumadin question

[SJJ]

Hi guys. I'm just shy of 4 weeks post op and went this morning for my weekly PT.
Last Monday I was high at 4.3. My dosage was changed from 5mg daily to 2.5mg that night and 2.5mg on Wed.-the other days remained at 5mg. This morning, I was in range for the first time at 3.1. My instructions were to repeat last week's dosage by taking 2.5mg tonight and Wed and 5mg the other nights. I would have thought that the two days of 2.5mg last was for correction, not maintenance and now that I've leveled out, 5mg daily would be the dosage. I'm just trying to get educated here so any input would be appreciated.
Sue

 

[Ross]

4.3=35mg week-10%=3.5 or 31.5mg for the week rounded because of 5 mg tablets? 30mg per week and your in range. Sounds like a decent plan to me.

In other words, 35mg per week and you were too high, so drop the dose by 10% approx. over a week and retest, which brought you to 3.1. You are in the ball park! Another test next Monday at this same dose will pretty much let you know where you stand. The only thing is, are you on any additional meds that they may have you stop soon? Are you being consistent in your dietary intake? etc.

 

[SJJ]

Thanks for the assist Ross, I think I get it now. I hope I've reached some stabilization but I realize it's a little premature to count on it. Everything is pretty consistent right now; meds, diet, activity level, etc. When my sternum is healed I'll add some light weight training and/or Pilates so may have to readjust again at that time.
Sue

 

[Guest]

I'm starting to feel like the Maytag Repair Man.

 

[RCB]

Not really Al

Not really Al

Repair man- No!
Wise professor who has taugh his student well- YES!

 

[Ross]

I'll leave these things unanswered for you Al. I know you need something to keep you busy. Besides lately I haven't been real accurate with the info or so it seems.

 

[Gail in Ca]

As the months go by you may discover that 10% less or more is too much as I did.
If my INR now is too high I only drop 2 1/2mg that day ( I take 70mg/week) and the next time I test it is in range.
My liver processes coumadin well and the big dosage changes used to cause major drops in INR out of range for me.
Gail