# Supplements That Should Not Be Taken With Warfarin
Warfarin is a popular anticoagulant medication that helps to prevent blood clots. It works by inhibiting the production of vitamin K in the liver, which is essential for blood clotting. However, this medication can interact with certain supplements, leading to serious side effects. In this article, we will discuss the supplements that should not be taken with warfarin.
## Vitamin K Supplements
Since warfarin works by inhibiting the production of vitamin K, taking vitamin K supplements can counteract its effects. High levels of vitamin K in the body can interfere with the effectiveness of warfarin, leading to an increased risk of blood clots. Therefore, it is recommended that people taking warfarin should avoid vitamin K supplements.
## Herbal Supplements
Herbal supplements are becoming increasingly popular as a natural alternative to traditional medicine. However, many of these supplements can interact with prescription medications, including warfarin. Here are some of the herbal supplements that should be avoided while taking warfarin:
### Garlic
Garlic supplements can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with warfarin. Garlic contains compounds that can interfere with blood clotting, which can lead to serious bleeding.
### Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is a popular herbal supplement used to improve memory and cognitive function. However, it can also increase the risk of bleeding when taken with warfarin. Ginkgo biloba can interfere with blood clotting, leading to excessive bleeding.
### St. John’s Wort
St. John’s Wort is a natural supplement used to treat depression and anxiety. However, it can also interact with warfarin, leading to an increased risk of bleeding. St. John’s Wort can increase the metabolism of warfarin, reducing its effectiveness.
## Multivitamins
Taking multivitamins is a common practice to ensure that the body gets all the necessary vitamins and minerals. However, multivitamins can also interact with warfarin, leading to serious side effects. Some of the vitamins and minerals that should be avoided while taking warfarin include:
### Vitamin E
Vitamin E supplements can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with warfarin. Vitamin E is a natural blood thinner that can interfere with the effectiveness of warfarin.
### Vitamin C
Vitamin C supplements can also interact with warfarin, leading to an increased risk of bleeding. Vitamin C can interfere with the metabolism of warfarin, reducing its effectiveness.
### Iron
Iron supplements can also interact with warfarin, leading to an increased risk of bleeding. Iron can interfere with the metabolism of warfarin, reducing its effectiveness.
## Conclusion
In conclusion, taking certain supplements while on warfarin can lead to serious side effects. It is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any supplements while on warfarin. By avoiding the supplements mentioned in this article, you can ensure that warfarin works effectively and reduces the risk of blood clots.
