Getting Settled Into the Coumadin Routine

When one is on coumadin, there is a test to determine if the dosage is "correct". The INR number is an indication of how "thin" your blood is. Before the drugs, my INR was 1.1. The goal, on the drugs, is 2.0 to 3.0. To get me there fast, a series of shots were scheduled twice a day for up to 7 days along with the drug. Sue was able to give me the shots. After three days of drugs and shots, my INR was 3 and the shots could stop. Now, I continue with the drug and get the INR tested twice a week for a while to see that the combination of drug dosage and my diet allow the number to stay in the 2 to 3 range. Drug dosage can be adjusted weekly if needed. It is estimated that I will be on coumadin for three months.