COUMADIN PROBLEMS AND ALTERNATIVES - NATTOKINASE AND LUMBROKINASE

by Dr. Lawrence Wilson

All information in this article is for educational purposes only. It is not for the diagnosis, treatment, prescription or cure of any disease or health condition.

At times, there is a need for an anti-coagulant to help particular patients. Cases in which it is helpful include certain cases of heart arrhythmias, angina, after a heart attack, or in a person with an artificial heart valve or other heart prostheses.

Warfarin. The medical drug that is used most often is warfarin. Its brand names are Coumadin, Jantoven, Marevan, Lawarin, Waran, and Warfant. This drug is a patented version of a sweet clover extract.

This drug was first used as rat poison, and is still used for this purpose. It is a rather dangerous drug that must be carefully monitored, and which can have significant side effects.

Side effects. The main side effect of warfarin is bleeding or hemorrhaging. However, other side effects include osteoporosis, warfarin necrosis, purple toe syndrome, drug interactions and important interactions with common foods that contain vitamin K. These can be very serious complications. In addition, warfarin is contraindicated in pregnancy.

NATURAL ALTERNATIVES

Two natural alternatives to this drug are nattokinase and lumbrokinase. Nattokinase is a derivative of natto, a Japanese food. Lumbrokinase is made from earthworms. These are enzymes that appear to accomplish the same results as warfarin with fewer side effects, and neither require a prescription.

The natural products do not seem to have as bad side effects as the prescription drug, and this is a major advantage.

Transitioning from warfarin to the natural products. This must be done very slowly and delicately. This is extremely important. Frequent blood tests are needed to prevent too much bleeding.

OTHER ARTICLES ABOUT CARDIOVASCULAR CONDITIONS

There are numerous articles about cardiovascular health conditions on this website. They are available by clicking here.

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