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Can you take Unasyn with Warfarin?

1 drug interaction and 47 additional warnings found for the following 2 drugs:

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Drug interactions

Moderate drug interactions

Moderate:

ampicillin warfarin

Applies to: Unasyn (ampicillin / sulbactam) and warfarin

Using warfarin together with ampicillin may increase the risk of bleeding, especially if you are elderly or have kidney or liver impairment. You may need more frequent monitoring of your prothrombin time or INR by your doctor to safely use both medications. Call your doctor promptly if you experience any unusual bleeding or bruising, swelling, vomiting, blood in your urine or stools, headache, dizziness, or weakness during treatment with these medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Food/lifestyle interactions

Moderate food/lifestyle interactions

Moderate:

ampicillin Food/Lifestyle

Applies to: Unasyn (ampicillin / sulbactam)

You may experience reduced absorption of ampicillin in the presence of food. The effectiveness of the antibiotic may be reduced. Ampicillin should be administered one hour before or two hours after meals. This will make it easier for your body to absorb the medication. Penicillin V and amoxicillin are not affected by food and may be given without regard to meals.

Moderate:

warfarin Food/Lifestyle

Applies to: warfarin

Nutrition and diet can affect your treatment with warfarin. Therefore, it is important to keep your vitamin supplement and food intake steady throughout treatment. Vitamin K helps your blood clot, so eating more vitamin K can make warfarin less effective. You do not need to avoid foods with vitamin K, but you should keep your intake steady from day to day. Foods high in vitamin K include liver, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, collard greens, endive, kale, lettuce, mustard greens, parsley, soybeans, spinach, Swiss chard, turnip greens, watercress, and other green leafy vegetables. Foods with moderate vitamin K levels include asparagus, avocados, dill pickles, green peas, green tea, canola oil, margarine, mayonnaise, olive oil, and soybean oil.

Some foods that do not contain vitamin K may still affect warfarin. There have been reports of increased bleeding in patients who consumed large amounts of cranberry juice, grapefruit, grapefruit juice, or pomegranate juice. You should avoid or limit their consumption while you are receiving warfarin.

If you take warfarin you should avoid large amounts or chronic consumption of alcohol. Alcohol may increase your risk of bleeding or clotting depending on the amount and pattern of alcohol consumption, as well as your liver function and disease state.

If you get warfarin through a feeding tube, your doctor may adjust your feeding times around your medicine.

Call your doctor right away if you notice unusual bruising, blood in your urine or stool, black or tarry stools, coughing up blood, vomiting blood, swelling or pain in your arms or legs, chest pain, trouble breathing, or sudden weakness or numbness. Talk to your doctor if you have questions about foods, substances or alcohol that may interact with warfarin. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Moderate:

warfarin multivitamins with minerals

Applies to: warfarin

Rarely, vitamin supplements containing vitamin K may reduce the effectiveness of warfarin. This may be more likely to occur in individuals who have low levels of vitamin K in their blood. Before using any vitamin supplement, you should check the label to make sure it does not contain vitamin K. If it does, let your doctor know before you start using it. You may need more frequent monitoring of your INR after starting the supplement or whenever it is discontinued, and appropriate adjustments made in your dosage if necessary. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including other nutritional supplements and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Moderate:

warfarin Nicotine

Applies to: warfarin

As you stop smoking during treatment with nicotine, your dosage requirement of warfarin may need to be changed. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Your doctor may be able to prescribe alternatives that do not interact, or you may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Disease interactions

43 potential interactions Applies to: 38 conditions, including High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Underactive Thyroid, Heart Failure, and Diarrhea.

Aortic Aneurysm

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Aortic Aneurysm.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

Bleeding Disorder

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Bleeding Disorder.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

Cerebral Aneurysm

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Cerebral Aneurysm.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

Coagulation Defects and Disorders

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Coagulation Defects and Disorders.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

Collagen Vascular Disease

Moderate:

warfarin

Warfarin has a moderate potential interaction with Collagen Vascular Disease.

Patients with a collagen vascular disease (e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma), congestive heart failure (especially decompensated disease), severe or prolonged diarrhea, fever, hyperthyroidism, malabsorption, or steatorrhea may exhibit greater than expected hypoprothrombinemic response to oral anticoagulants. Thus, more frequent laboratory (PT/INR) monitoring and dosage adjustment of anticoagulant may be required based on changes in the patient's condition. Patients should be advised to promptly report any signs of bleeding to their physician, including pain, swelling, headache, dizziness, weakness, prolonged bleeding from cuts, increased menstrual flow, vaginal bleeding, nosebleeds, bleeding of gums from brushing, unusual bleeding or bruising, red or brown urine, or red or black stools.

Colonic Ulceration

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Colonic Ulceration.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

Diabetes Mellitus

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Diabetes Mellitus.

Therapy with oral anticoagulants should be administered cautiously in patients with severe diabetes because they may be at increased risk for hemorrhage. The INR should be monitored closely, and patients should be advised to promptly report any signs of bleeding to their physician, including pain, swelling, headache, dizziness, weakness, prolonged bleeding from cuts, increased menstrual flow, vaginal bleeding, nosebleeds, bleeding of gums from brushing, unusual bleeding or bruising, red or brown urine, or red or black stools.

Diarrhea

Moderate:

warfarin

Warfarin has a moderate potential interaction with Diarrhea.

Patients with a collagen vascular disease (e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma), congestive heart failure (especially decompensated disease), severe or prolonged diarrhea, fever, hyperthyroidism, malabsorption, or steatorrhea may exhibit greater than expected hypoprothrombinemic response to oral anticoagulants. Thus, more frequent laboratory (PT/INR) monitoring and dosage adjustment of anticoagulant may be required based on changes in the patient's condition. Patients should be advised to promptly report any signs of bleeding to their physician, including pain, swelling, headache, dizziness, weakness, prolonged bleeding from cuts, increased menstrual flow, vaginal bleeding, nosebleeds, bleeding of gums from brushing, unusual bleeding or bruising, red or brown urine, or red or black stools.

Diverticulitis

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Diverticulitis.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

Esophageal Ulceration

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Esophageal Ulceration.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

Fever

Moderate:

warfarin

Warfarin has a moderate potential interaction with Fever.

Patients with a collagen vascular disease (e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma), congestive heart failure (especially decompensated disease), severe or prolonged diarrhea, fever, hyperthyroidism, malabsorption, or steatorrhea may exhibit greater than expected hypoprothrombinemic response to oral anticoagulants. Thus, more frequent laboratory (PT/INR) monitoring and dosage adjustment of anticoagulant may be required based on changes in the patient's condition. Patients should be advised to promptly report any signs of bleeding to their physician, including pain, swelling, headache, dizziness, weakness, prolonged bleeding from cuts, increased menstrual flow, vaginal bleeding, nosebleeds, bleeding of gums from brushing, unusual bleeding or bruising, red or brown urine, or red or black stools.

Fluid Retention

Moderate:

Unasyn

The ampicillin in Unasyn has a moderate potential interaction with Fluid Retention.

Parenteral ampicillin sodium contains approximately 67 to 71 mg (2.9 to 3.1 mEq) of sodium per each gram of ampicillin activity. The combination, ampicillin-sulbactam, contains approximately 115 mg (5 mEq) of sodium per 1.5 gram of total drug. The sodium content should be considered when these products are used in patients with conditions that may require sodium restriction, such as congestive heart failure, hypertension, and fluid retention.

Moderate:

warfarin

Warfarin has a moderate potential interaction with Fluid Retention.

Patients with edema, hereditary coumarin resistance, hyperlipidemia, hypothyroidism, or nephrotic syndrome may exhibit lower than expected hypoprothrombinemic response to oral anticoagulants. Thus, more frequent laboratory (PT/INR) monitoring and dosage adjustment of anticoagulant may be required based on changes in the patient's condition.

Heart Failure

Moderate:

Unasyn

The ampicillin in Unasyn has a moderate potential interaction with Heart Failure.

Parenteral ampicillin sodium contains approximately 67 to 71 mg (2.9 to 3.1 mEq) of sodium per each gram of ampicillin activity. The combination, ampicillin-sulbactam, contains approximately 115 mg (5 mEq) of sodium per 1.5 gram of total drug. The sodium content should be considered when these products are used in patients with conditions that may require sodium restriction, such as congestive heart failure, hypertension, and fluid retention.

Moderate:

warfarin

Warfarin has a moderate potential interaction with Heart Failure.

Patients with a collagen vascular disease (e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma), congestive heart failure (especially decompensated disease), severe or prolonged diarrhea, fever, hyperthyroidism, malabsorption, or steatorrhea may exhibit greater than expected hypoprothrombinemic response to oral anticoagulants. Thus, more frequent laboratory (PT/INR) monitoring and dosage adjustment of anticoagulant may be required based on changes in the patient's condition. Patients should be advised to promptly report any signs of bleeding to their physician, including pain, swelling, headache, dizziness, weakness, prolonged bleeding from cuts, increased menstrual flow, vaginal bleeding, nosebleeds, bleeding of gums from brushing, unusual bleeding or bruising, red or brown urine, or red or black stools.

Hemodialysis

Moderate:

Unasyn

The ampicillin in Unasyn has a moderate potential interaction with Hemodialysis.

Penicillin antibiotics (except for agents in the penicillinase-resistant class) are removed by hemodialysis. Doses should either be scheduled for administration after dialysis or supplemental doses be given after dialysis.

High Blood Pressure

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with High Blood Pressure.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with malignant or severe, uncontrolled hypertension. These patients may be at increased risk for cerebral hemorrhage. Therapy with oral anticoagulants should be administered cautiously in patients with moderate hypertension.

Moderate:

Unasyn

The ampicillin in Unasyn has a moderate potential interaction with High Blood Pressure.

Parenteral ampicillin sodium contains approximately 67 to 71 mg (2.9 to 3.1 mEq) of sodium per each gram of ampicillin activity. The combination, ampicillin-sulbactam, contains approximately 115 mg (5 mEq) of sodium per 1.5 gram of total drug. The sodium content should be considered when these products are used in patients with conditions that may require sodium restriction, such as congestive heart failure, hypertension, and fluid retention.

High Cholesterol

Moderate:

warfarin

Warfarin has a moderate potential interaction with High Cholesterol.

Patients with edema, hereditary coumarin resistance, hyperlipidemia, hypothyroidism, or nephrotic syndrome may exhibit lower than expected hypoprothrombinemic response to oral anticoagulants. Thus, more frequent laboratory (PT/INR) monitoring and dosage adjustment of anticoagulant may be required based on changes in the patient's condition.

Hypernatremia

Moderate:

Unasyn

The ampicillin in Unasyn has a moderate potential interaction with Hypernatremia.

Parenteral ampicillin sodium contains approximately 67 to 71 mg (2.9 to 3.1 mEq) of sodium per each gram of ampicillin activity. The combination, ampicillin-sulbactam, contains approximately 115 mg (5 mEq) of sodium per 1.5 gram of total drug. The sodium content should be considered when these products are used in patients with conditions that may require sodium restriction, such as congestive heart failure, hypertension, and fluid retention.

Hyperthyroidism

Moderate:

warfarin

Warfarin has a moderate potential interaction with Hyperthyroidism.

Patients with a collagen vascular disease (e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma), congestive heart failure (especially decompensated disease), severe or prolonged diarrhea, fever, hyperthyroidism, malabsorption, or steatorrhea may exhibit greater than expected hypoprothrombinemic response to oral anticoagulants. Thus, more frequent laboratory (PT/INR) monitoring and dosage adjustment of anticoagulant may be required based on changes in the patient's condition. Patients should be advised to promptly report any signs of bleeding to their physician, including pain, swelling, headache, dizziness, weakness, prolonged bleeding from cuts, increased menstrual flow, vaginal bleeding, nosebleeds, bleeding of gums from brushing, unusual bleeding or bruising, red or brown urine, or red or black stools.

Infectious Endocarditis

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Infectious Endocarditis.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

Liver Disease

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Liver Disease.

Oral anticoagulants (coumarin and indandione derivatives) are primarily metabolized by the liver. Patients with hepatic impairment may have a heightened response to these agents due to decreased clearance of the drugs as well as defective hemostasis associated with impaired synthesis of clotting factors by the liver. Therapy with oral anticoagulants should be administered cautiously in patients with severe or moderate liver disease. The INR should be monitored closely, and patients should be advised to promptly report any signs of bleeding to their physician, including pain, swelling, headache, dizziness, weakness, prolonged bleeding from cuts, increased menstrual flow, vaginal bleeding, nosebleeds, bleeding of gums from brushing, unusual bleeding or bruising, red or brown urine, or red or black stools

Malabsorption Syndrome

Moderate:

warfarin

Warfarin has a moderate potential interaction with Malabsorption Syndrome.

Patients with a collagen vascular disease (e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma), congestive heart failure (especially decompensated disease), severe or prolonged diarrhea, fever, hyperthyroidism, malabsorption, or steatorrhea may exhibit greater than expected hypoprothrombinemic response to oral anticoagulants. Thus, more frequent laboratory (PT/INR) monitoring and dosage adjustment of anticoagulant may be required based on changes in the patient's condition. Patients should be advised to promptly report any signs of bleeding to their physician, including pain, swelling, headache, dizziness, weakness, prolonged bleeding from cuts, increased menstrual flow, vaginal bleeding, nosebleeds, bleeding of gums from brushing, unusual bleeding or bruising, red or brown urine, or red or black stools.

Malnourishment

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Malnourishment.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

Mononucleosis

Moderate:

Unasyn

The ampicillin in Unasyn has a moderate potential interaction with Mononucleosis.

Patients with mononucleosis treated with an aminopenicillin antibiotic, may develop a pruritic erythematous maculopapular skin rash. The rash is usually self-limiting and resolves within days of discontinuing the offending agent. An altered drug metabolism or an immune-mediated process unrelated to drug hypersensitivity has been proposed as the underlying mechanism. Therapy with aminopenicillin antibiotics should not be administered in patients with mononucleosis.

Myeloproliferative Disorders

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Myeloproliferative Disorders.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

Noninfectious Colitis

Major:

Unasyn

The ampicillin and sulbactam in Unasyn both have a major potential interaction with Noninfectious Colitis.

Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD), formerly pseudomembranous colitis, has been reported with almost all antibacterial drugs and may range from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. The most common culprits include clindamycin and lincomycin. Antibacterial therapy alters the normal flora of the colon, leading to overgrowth of C difficile, whose toxins A and B contribute to CDAD development. Morbidity and mortality are increased with hypertoxin-producing strains of C difficile; these infections can be resistant to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea after antibacterial use. Since CDAD has been reported to occur more than 2 months after antibacterial use, careful medical history is necessary. Therapy with broad-spectrum antibacterials and other agents with significant antibacterial activity should be administered cautiously in patients with history of gastrointestinal disease, particularly colitis; pseudomembranous colitis (generally characterized by severe, persistent diarrhea and severe abdominal cramps, and sometimes associated with the passage of blood and mucus), if it occurs, may be more severe in these patients and may be associated with flares in underlying disease activity. Antibacterial drugs not directed against C difficile may need to be stopped if CDAD is suspected or confirmed. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibacterial treatment of C difficile, and surgical evaluation should be started as clinically indicated.

Peptic Ulcer

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Peptic Ulcer.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

Pericarditis

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Pericarditis.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

Pheochromocytoma

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Pheochromocytoma.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with malignant or severe, uncontrolled hypertension. These patients may be at increased risk for cerebral hemorrhage. Therapy with oral anticoagulants should be administered cautiously in patients with moderate hypertension.

Protein C Deficiency

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Protein C Deficiency.

Tissue necrosis is a rare complication that develops during the initiation of oral anticoagulant therapy due to thrombotic occlusion of venules in the dermis and subcutaneous tissues. Hereditary, familial, or clinical deficiencies of protein C or its cofactor, protein S, may be associated with a hypercoagulable state and an increased risk of the complication. Therapy with oral anticoagulants should be administered cautiously in patients with known or suspected deficiency in protein C-mediated anticoagulant response. Concomitant administration with heparin for the first 5 to 7 days of oral anticoagulant therapy may minimize the risk. If tissue necrosis develops, oral anticoagulant therapy should be discontinued promptly and vitamin K or frozen plasma administered at once. Heparin should then be considered for anticoagulation.

Renal Dysfunction

Moderate:

Unasyn

The ampicillin in Unasyn has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

Most beta-lactam antibacterial agents are eliminated by the kidney as unchanged drug and, in some cases, also as metabolites. The serum concentrations of beta-lactam antibacterial agents and their metabolites may be increased, and the half-lives prolonged, in patients with impaired renal function. Neurotoxic reactions (e.g., encephalopathy, aphasia, asterixis, myoclonus, seizures, nonconvulsive status epilepticus, coma) have been reported in such patients treated parenterally with these agents. Dosage adjustments may be necessary, and modifications should be based on the degree of renal dysfunction as well as severity of infection in accordance with the individual manufacturer product information. Renal function tests should be performed periodically during prolonged and/or high-dose therapy since nephrotoxicity and alterations in renal function have occasionally been associated with the use of these drugs.

Moderate:

Unasyn

The sulbactam in Unasyn has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

Beta-lactamase inhibitors are available in combination with beta-lactam antibacterial agents. Beta-lactamase inhibitors are primarily eliminated by the kidneys, with 75% to 100% of the administered dose excreted as unchanged drug. The plasma exposures (AUC) of beta-lactamase inhibitors (and the associated beta-lactam antibacterial agents) are increased with decreasing renal function. Dosage adjustments are generally necessary for products containing beta-lactamase inhibitors, and modifications should be based on the degree of renal dysfunction in accordance with the individual manufacturer product information. Because it may change during the course of therapy, renal function should be monitored regularly and the dosage should be adjusted accordingly, as appropriate.

Beta-lactamase inhibitors and beta-lactam antibacterial agents can be removed by hemodialysis. The dose should be administered after hemodialysis on hemodialysis days.

Moderate:

warfarin

Warfarin has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

There is no evidence that hypoprothrombinemic response to oral anticoagulants (coumarin and indandione derivatives) is altered in renal impairment due to decreased plasma protein binding, thus dosage adjustments are generally not necessary. However, patients with renal impairment may demonstrate platelet defects and may be at increased risk for bleeding. Therapy with oral anticoagulants should be administered cautiously in patients with severe or moderate renal dysfunction. The INR should be monitored closely, and patients should be advised to promptly report any signs of bleeding to their physician, including pain, swelling, headache, dizziness, weakness, prolonged bleeding from cuts, increased menstrual flow, vaginal bleeding, nosebleeds, bleeding of gums from brushing, unusual bleeding or bruising, red or brown urine, or red or black stools.

Thrombocytopathy

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Thrombocytopathy.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

Thrombocytopenia

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Thrombocytopenia.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

Toxemia of pregnancy

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Toxemia of pregnancy.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

Ulcerative Colitis

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Ulcerative Colitis.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

Underactive Thyroid

Moderate:

warfarin

Warfarin has a moderate potential interaction with Underactive Thyroid.

Patients with edema, hereditary coumarin resistance, hyperlipidemia, hypothyroidism, or nephrotic syndrome may exhibit lower than expected hypoprothrombinemic response to oral anticoagulants. Thus, more frequent laboratory (PT/INR) monitoring and dosage adjustment of anticoagulant may be required based on changes in the patient's condition.

Vasculitis

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Vasculitis.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

Vitamin C Deficiency

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Vitamin C Deficiency.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

Vitamin K Deficiency

Major:

warfarin

Warfarin has a major potential interaction with Vitamin K Deficiency.

In general, the use of oral anticoagulants is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis or other significant risks for bleeding, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, severe hepatic impairment, and myeloproliferative disorders such as leukemia or polycythemia vera. Additionally, oral anticoagulants are usually contraindicated in the presence of any active ulceration of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, or genitourinary tracts; cerebrovascular hemorrhage; aneurysms (cerebral, dissecting aortic); pericarditis and pericardial effusions; bacterial endocarditis; and eclampsia, preeclampsia, or threatened abortion. These patients may be at increased risk for uncontrollable hemorrhage or bleeding complications during therapy with oral anticoagulants. Other potential contraindications include diverticulitis, vasculitis, malnutrition, and vitamin C or vitamin K deficiency. The decision to administer anticoagulants must be based upon clinical judgment in which the risks are weighed against the benefits in each patient.

More resources

Unasyn

A total of 82 drugs are known to interact with Unasyn.

warfarin

A total of 702 drugs are known to interact with warfarin.

Drug Interaction Classification

These classifications are only a guideline. The relevance of a particular drug interaction to a specific individual is difficult to determine. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.
Major Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit.
Moderate Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances.
Minor Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan.
Unknown No interaction information available.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.