Interaction between warfarin and pomegranate juice

I read more and more about people drinking pomegranate juice for health reasons. It really has grown in popularity as a health drink.

However, if you take warfarin you may wish to be aware of a patient report that shows the possible interaction between pomegranate juice and warfarin.

Pomegranate juice is made from the juice of the pomegranate fruit. You can squeeze your own juice or buy one of the many brands of juices available from the supermarket.

Video: Pomegranate Juice Health Benefits

I liked this short video as it shows the pomegranate fruit and some brands of juice you can buy. The lady in the video also lists some general health benefits that drinking pomegranate may give. Keep in mind she is a chef and not a physician offering medical advice.

The pomegranate and warfarin report

A patient report in Pharmacotherapy journal showed a potential interaction between pomegranate juice and warfarin in a patient. A 64 year old woman was treated with 4 mg a day of warfarin to treat her deep vein thrombosis. Her INR had been stable for several months.

During this time she drunk pomegranate juice 2 to 3 times a week. When she stopped drinking the juice her INRs became too low and the dosage of warfarin had to be increased. She did not start drinking the pomegranate juice again.

Lead researcher Dr. Komperda from the Midwestern University Chicago College of Pharmacy, Illinois said the case supports her conclusion that suggests a potential for pomegranate juice to inhibit the metabolism of warfarin. Dr. Komperda wrote in conclusion, “Clinicians should be aware of the interaction and thoroughly interview and closely monitor their patients who are receiving warfarin.”

Note: This article is not intended for medical advice. If you drink pomegranate juice and take warfarin you may wish to discuss this report with your doctor.

Related articles

• Be aware of internal bleeding when using anti-clot drug combinations.
• Looking for a safe target INR range.

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She helps on the websites and gathering news for the programs. Kellie worked in the medical industry prior to having her two children (8 and 6) and has a strong interest in self awareness and management of health conditions.

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