1. Community
  2. Blood & Immune System
  3. Anticoagulants

INR level dropped below target

Posted , 4 users are following.

alison79127
alison79127

I was put on Warfarin in February, when I tested positive for Factor V Leiden. I reached my target level quickly and all seemed to be. Going smoothly. However, this month my levels have been low - 1.8 instead of 2-3, although my diet hasn't changed at all.  I have now had two readings if 1.8 and now 1.9 despite the dosage increasing. 

Has anyone else encountered this?

is there anything else I can do to get back into the target range?

Although I'm still having problems with my eye, which started this, I would like to feel I'm getting one thing under control so I can start to plan holidays etc!

2 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • rob60599
    rob60599 alison79127

    Posted

    Hi Alison, I've been on Warfarin for just over a year after a second DVT. Over this time I've noticed that for a period the INR levels seem to remain stable e.g. 3 months  (my target is 2.5) then all of a sudden its either high or low. I hadn't changed my diet or  gained/lost weight. I did question my haemotologist about it, but the response I got was that Warfarin isn't perfect and you just have to adjust your dosage accordingly.  
    • alison79127
      alison79127 rob60599

      Posted

      Thanks Rob. I will just have to learn to be patient! It is just frustrating to feel something is not in my control. Having read other posts, I realise that my levels haven't varied too wildly, so I am pleased with that. 
  • gill43753
    gill43753 alison79127

    Posted

    Hi Alison,

    Try googling 'Warfarin food interactions chart'. I've been on Warfarin since 1997, having had major DVTs,and only finding out 14 years later that I'm positive for Factor V Leiden.Only in recent years have people pointed out what I should and shouldn't eat/drink.Sometimes you find that food/drugs interfere with your INR,and sometimes it seems to just change for no reason at all.I have 9 other medications for it to react with,which is not easy sometimes.I'm now 50,but my first DVT happened in both legs early pregnancy in 1990,so if you're child-bearing age,make sure you mention this,as Factor V Leiden seems to kick in with hormone change.The doctors had to insert a metal filter to prevent movement of blood clots to my vital organs.This means no MRI scans ever,and no going through normal magnetic security at ports/airports etc.Also it was stressed to me that my family should all be tested for Factor V Leiden.My son is negative,which means he also can't pass it on,but my sisters are positive,but have had no problems like me.As far as holidays are concerned,I would make sure that you are tested close to when you leave,so that you have some idea of your level,and it can be adjusted if necessary.Do hope some of this helps.Gill

  • gill43753
    gill43753 alison79127

    Posted

    Hi Alison,Gill again. I'm tested usually every week or every fortnight.Unfortunately,I need a tooth seeing to at the moment,and the dentist will only deal with it if I'm below 2.5. My usual range is 2.5-3.5,so had blood test yesterday,one tomorrow,and another two days after dental work to get back to normal range.
Back to top

Report or request deletion

Thanks for your help!

We want the community to be a useful resource for our users but it is important to remember that the community are not moderated or reviewed by doctors and so you should not rely on opinions or advice given by other users in respect of any healthcare matters. Always speak to your doctor before acting and in cases of emergency seek appropriate medical assistance immediately. Use of the community is subject to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and steps will be taken to remove posts identified as being in breach of those terms.