Acenocoumarol

Acenocoumarol.svg

Anticoagulant medication

Acenocoumarol is an anticoagulant medication used for the prevention and treatment of thromboembolic disorders. It is a vitamin K antagonist that works by inhibiting the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors.

Medical uses

Acenocoumarol is primarily used to prevent and treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). It is also used in patients with atrial fibrillation to reduce the risk of stroke and in those with mechanical heart valves to prevent thromboembolic complications.

Mechanism of action

Acenocoumarol inhibits the enzyme vitamin K epoxide reductase, which is necessary for the activation of vitamin K. This inhibition leads to a decrease in the synthesis of active clotting factors II, VII, IX, and X, as well as the anticoagulant proteins C and S. The reduction in these clotting factors results in an anticoagulant effect.

Pharmacokinetics

Acenocoumarol is administered orally and has a bioavailability of nearly 100%. It is highly protein-bound and is metabolized in the liver. The elimination half-life of acenocoumarol is approximately 8-11 hours, and it is excreted primarily through the kidneys.

Side effects

Common side effects of acenocoumarol include bleeding, bruising, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Serious side effects can include severe bleeding, allergic reactions, and liver dysfunction.

Monitoring

Patients on acenocoumarol require regular monitoring of their International Normalized Ratio (INR) to ensure that they remain within the therapeutic range. The INR is a standardized measure of blood clotting time and helps to adjust the dosage of acenocoumarol to maintain effective anticoagulation while minimizing the risk of bleeding.

Interactions

Acenocoumarol can interact with a variety of medications, including other anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, and certain antibiotics. It can also interact with foods high in vitamin K, such as green leafy vegetables, which can reduce its effectiveness.

See also

• Warfarin
• Vitamin K antagonist
• Thromboembolism
• Anticoagulant