AboutNigel Simmons Expertise I am happy to answer general questions on medicines and hospital care. If possible, please use approved / chemical names rather than brands which are not internationally recognised.
Like all health professionals I am bound by a duty of care which prevents me giving detailed information about medication or treatment of people other than the questioner.
I will endeavour to help wherever possible or point towards more appropriate advice. If however your question crosses too far into patient confidentiality, I hope you will understand why I cannot answer your question.
Consider.. would you want me to discuss your care with a friend or relative without your knowledge?
Experience Registered as a UK pharmacist in 1982 and have worked in a number of hospital and health management posts around the UK. Formerly Chief Pharmacist for a 440 bed general hospital in Cambridgeshire.
Past/Present clients Previously Sysop on CompuServe UK Professionals forum.
Expert: Nigel Simmons Date: 2/12/2008 Subject: Information on using Warfarin and Glucosamine
Question Precisely that please. I'm male, 83yrs with Atriel Fibrilation for which I take Warfarin (6yrs) Arthritis is rearing it's head again, mainly joints and in the neck. Exercises are not as effective as I'd hoped. I've been given some Glucosamine + Chondroitin. Would you consider the taking of these, a risk please. The hospital physio is confident, but would be helpful to obtain doctor/pharmacy approval first. Your opinion would be greatly appreciated. Most Sincerely H.L.C.
Answer Harold
As you will be aware it is important that your warfarin dosing is controlled to the correct level.
With regard to potential interaction between warfarin and glucosamine, there have been a number of validated reports of increased INR (time taken for the blood to clot) in some patients who commence taking glucosamine. If this occurs there is a risk of bleeding (including stroke) until the INR is brought back into range, usually by adjustment of the warfarin dose.
The reference for this information can be found here:
The site is the UK National Library of Medicine, so all details are accurate and validated.
My recommendation would be to speak with your doctor or anticoagulant clinic before commencing with glucosamine. They can confirm that your INR is in the correct range at the start and then closely monitor levels as you start the glucosamine. I would suggest starting with a low dose and building up so that the effects can be monitored with less risk of a sudden extreme change in INR.
