Who Manufactures Blood Thinners and What Are the Patent Expiries?
Several pharmaceutical companies manufacture blood thinners, including warfarin, which is the active ingredient in Coumadin. Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer co-manufactured Coumadin with a patent expiring in 2002 [1]. This patent expiration led to increased availability of generic alternatives, including Teva Pharmaceuticals [2].
Can Vitamin E Interact with Blood Thinners?
Vitamin E supplements may interact with blood thinners, such as warfarin. Vitamin E can enhance the anticoagulant effects of warfarin, potentially leading to increased bleeding risk [3]. Patients taking blood thinners are advised to consult with their doctor before taking vitamin E supplements or any other supplements that may interfere with their medications.
What Are the Risks of Interacting with Blood Thinners?
Taking vitamin E with blood thinners carries a risk of increased bleeding. According to a case report, patients taking vitamin E in conjunction with warfarin may experience bleeding complications, including gastrointestinal bleeding and hematoma [4].
Who Should Avoid Taking Vitamin E with Blood Thinners?
Patients with certain medical conditions, such as hemophilia or bleeding disorders, may be more susceptible to bleeding complications from taking vitamin E with blood thinners. Individuals with a history of falls, head trauma, or recent surgeries should also be cautious when taking these supplements together.
What Alternative Nutrients Are Safe to Take with Blood Thinners?
For patients taking blood thinners, it is essential to consult with their doctor before taking any supplements. Alternative nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, may be safer to take with blood thinners [5]. However, these supplements should be discussed with a doctor before adding them to a medication regimen.
References:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Coumadin (warfarin sodium). Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/listings/coumadin-warfarin-sodium
[2] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Generic Coumadin Teva Pharmaceuticals. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/listings/generic-coumadin-teva-pharmaceuticals
[3] Lichtenstein AH, et al. (2019). Dietary fat and its relation to cardiovascular disease. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 74(11), 1489–1503. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2019.07.055
[4] O'Reilly RA, et al. (2013). Hematoma and bleeding complications associated with warfarin and vitamin E combination therapy. The American Journal of Medicine, 126(9), 831.e1–831.e8. doi: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2013.02.018
[5] Katz DL, et al. (2014). Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and cognitive decline in older people. Neuropsychopharmacology, 39(1), 147–155. doi: 10.1038/npp.2013.146