Anticoagulation Services

The anticoagulation clinics provided by Harris Health System's Department of Pharmacy, monitor and manage patients receiving anticoagulation therapy.

This clinical pharmacist-driven referral service is provided at 16 healthcare centers and two hospitals to best meet the needs of our patients. Clinical pharmacy specialists provide dose adjustments and monitor appropriate laboratory tests for anticoagulants such as warfarin (Coumadin®), enoxaparin (Lovenox®), and rivaroxaban (Xarelto®) to prevent or treat blood clots. The clinical pharmacy specialist also serves as an educational resource to patients by providing information on blood clot prevention, drug-drug interactions, drug-food interactions, and signs and symptoms of blood clots and bleeding. Using point-of-care i-STAT® machines, patients are able to obtain immediate blood levels (PT/INR) results.

Warfarin (Coumadin®) Patient Education
• My Warfarin Therapy Booklet (PDF)
• Tablet Colors /Color de Tableta (PDF)
• Common Drug Interactions (PDF)
• Warfarin and Use with Over the Counter and Herbal Medications (PDF)
• Foods containing Vitamin K (PDF)

When to Contact your Anticoagulation Provider (Monday – Friday, during clinic hours):
• Prior to starting any new vitamin, prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal medication
• If you experience a significant fall or head injury
• When planning a trip especially if requires long flights or significant time in a vehicle
• For upcoming surgeries and procedures
• If you become pregnant and are receiving Coumadin®
• Recent hospitalization and/or emergency department visit
• Questions about medication dose and instructions

When to call 911 or go to the Emergency Department:
• Bleeding that will not stop
• Sudden slurred speech or unable to talk
• Changes in vision
• New pain, swelling and redness in arms or legs
• Trouble breathing or chest pain
• Sudden weakness in arm or leg
• Dizziness or fainting

Contacting your Anticoagulation Provider:

Helpful Links and References

The National Alliance for Thrombosis and Thrombophilia
Clot Care
American Heart Association
Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome Foundation of America