Warfarin and Low Molecular Weight Heparin (enoxaparin or dalteparin)

What do I do if I have a procedure while I’m on Warfarin?

Contact your healthcare provider as soon as you learn that you have an upcoming procedure. For some procedures warfarin may need to be continued without interruption. For other procedures warfarin may need to be stopped prior to the procedure. It is best to let your health care provider determine if your warfarin needs to be stopped.

Those patients who are at the highest risk for developing a clot may need to be placed on another therapy during the time of their procedure called "Bridge Therapy". Your risk level will be determined by your healthcare provider. In Bridge Therapy, the warfarin is stopped and the patient is placed another medication, such as a Low Molecular Weight Heparin (LMWH). While the patient is off the warfarin therapy, the LMWH provides protection from blood clots.

How do I administer a LMWH?

Your healthcare professional can instruct you on the best way to utilize a LMWH should one be prescribed for you. Please contact your healthcare professional to set up a time to review this information.

General Patient Handouts

English

Spanish

Hmong

Russian

Warfarin