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Dong Quai + Warfarin

MAJOR — Use With Caution

DANGEROUS — additive anticoagulant/antiplatelet effect; significant bleeding risk

Evidence level: STRONG

What this interaction means

Dong quai contains blood-thinning compounds similar to warfarin — together they can cause dangerous bleeding.

How it works (mechanism)

Dong quai contains natural coumarins and may inhibit platelet aggregation. Combined with warfarin, significantly increases bleeding risk. Case reports of severe INR elevation.

Practical advice

Do NOT take dong quai while on warfarin. Discontinue dong quai and inform anticoagulation clinic. INR should be rechecked after stopping.

Timing

Use caution. Many botanicals affect blood clotting — ginkgo, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and dong quai all have antiplatelet activity that can amplify Warfarin. St. John's Wort can REDUCE anticoagulant effectiveness. Take at separate times and inform your prescriber about all herbal supplements. Request more frequent INR monitoring if on warfarin.

Risk factors

Concurrent anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapy, bleeding disorders, surgery planned

Symptoms to watch for

Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, blood in urine/stool, prolonged bleeding from cuts, heavy menstrual bleeding

What to tell your doctor

CRITICAL: Stop dong quai and inform anticoagulation clinic immediately.

Safer alternatives

Blood thinners have narrow safety margins. Instead of Dong Quai, consider safer options: CoQ10 (with INR monitoring), vitamin D3, or probiotics — these have minimal anticoagulant interactions. Always inform your anticoagulation clinic about any supplements.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Dong Quai and Warfarin together?

Dong quai contains blood-thinning compounds similar to warfarin — together they can cause dangerous bleeding.

When should I take Dong Quai vs Warfarin?

Use caution. Many botanicals affect blood clotting — ginkgo, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and dong quai all have antiplatelet activity that can amplify Warfarin. St. John's Wort can REDUCE anticoagulant effectiveness. Take at separate times and inform your prescriber about all herbal supplements. Request more frequent INR monitoring if on warfarin.

What symptoms should I watch for if I combine Dong Quai and Warfarin?

Unusual bruising, nosebleeds, blood in urine/stool, prolonged bleeding from cuts, heavy menstrual bleeding

Are there safer alternatives to combining Dong Quai with Warfarin?

Blood thinners have narrow safety margins. Instead of Dong Quai, consider safer options: CoQ10 (with INR monitoring), vitamin D3, or probiotics — these have minimal anticoagulant interactions. Always inform your anticoagulation clinic about any supplements.

What should I tell my doctor about taking Dong Quai and Warfarin?

CRITICAL: Stop dong quai and inform anticoagulation clinic immediately.

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