ACITROM 2 TABLET

🩸⚖️💊 Acenocoumarol 2mg Tablet: Precision Anticoagulation for Clot Prevention

Acenocoumarol 2mg, a prescription oral anticoagulant, belongs to the class of vitamin K antagonists (VKAs). It is widely used for the prevention and treatment of thromboembolic disorders such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation (AF). It is also commonly used in patients with mechanical heart valves to prevent blood clots. The tablet works by inhibiting the action of vitamin K, which is essential for the synthesis of clotting factors in the liver.

🔬 Mechanism of Action

Acenocoumarol exerts its anticoagulant effect by inhibiting the vitamin K epoxide reductase complex (VKORC1). This enzyme is responsible for converting inactive vitamin K to its active form, which is needed to synthesize clotting factors II, VII, IX, and X.

By reducing active vitamin K availability:

• Synthesis of functional clotting factors is impaired

• Blood takes longer to clot

• Risk of harmful clot formation is reduced

The effect of acenocoumarol is dose-dependent and delayed, typically becoming noticeable within 36–72 hours of administration.

📌 Indications and Uses

Acenocoumarol 2mg is prescribed for:

• Prophylaxis and treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE)

  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

  • Pulmonary embolism (PE)

• Prevention of thromboembolism in atrial fibrillation (AF)

• Thromboembolic prevention in patients with mechanical heart valves

• Post-myocardial infarction in selected high-risk patients

It may be used long-term or short-term depending on the clinical scenario.

💊 Dosage and Administration

• Initial dose: Usually 2–4 mg daily, adjusted based on INR (International Normalized Ratio)

• Maintenance dose: Typically ranges from 1–8 mg/day, individualized

• INR target:

  • 2.0–3.0 for DVT/AF

  • 2.5–3.5 for mechanical heart valves

• Frequent INR monitoring is essential to ensure therapeutic range and reduce bleeding risk

• Tablets are taken once daily, preferably at the same time

⚠️ Precautions and Warnings

• Requires routine INR monitoring

• Dose must be adjusted carefully to avoid bleeding or clotting

• Avoid in:

  • Pregnancy (especially first trimester) – risk of fetal harm

  • Liver disease

  • Bleeding disorders

• Use with caution in:

  • Elderly patients

  • Patients with history of ulcers or recent surgery

Inform all healthcare providers (including dentists) before any procedure while on acenocoumarol.

🤒 Side Effects

Common:

• Minor bleeding (gums, nose, bruises)

• Nausea

• Diarrhea

Serious:

• Internal bleeding

• Hematuria (blood in urine)

• Gastrointestinal bleeding

• Skin necrosis (rare but serious)

Seek immediate medical attention for signs of unusual bleeding, blood in stool or vomit, dizziness, or severe headache.

🔄 Drug and Food Interactions

• Interacts with many medications, including:

  • Antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, erythromycin)

  • NSAIDs (increase bleeding risk)

  • Antifungals

• Vitamin K-rich foods (spinach, kale, broccoli) may reduce efficacy

• Alcohol may enhance bleeding risk

Maintain a consistent intake of vitamin K in the diet.

🧊 Storage Instructions

• Store at 15–25°C

• Keep in original packaging, away from light and moisture

• Keep out of reach of children

📝 Conclusion

Acenocoumarol 2mg tablet is a potent and effective oral anticoagulant used to prevent life-threatening blood clots. While highly beneficial, it requires strict INR monitoring, individualized dosing, and awareness of interactions to balance its therapeutic effects against potential bleeding risks. With careful use, it remains a cornerstone in long-term anticoagulation therapy.

Note: This information is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.