Warfarin-cranberry juice interaction resulting in profound hypoprothrombinemia and bleeding

Am J Ther. 2006 May-Jun;13(3):283-4. doi: 10.1097/01.mjt.0000178908.32892.2f.

Abstract

Few published reports have suggested a substantial interaction between cranberry juice and warfarin, although a definite link could not be established. We encountered a patient taking stable doses of warfarin who developed major bleeding and high INR soon after starting daily cranberry juice. No other identifiable reasons for the high INR were apparent. The patient resumed his usual dose of warfarin after stopping the juice. This case suggests a definite relationship between cranberry juice and warfarin.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Anticoagulants / adverse effects*
  • Beverages / adverse effects*
  • Drug Synergism
  • Food-Drug Interactions*
  • Hemorrhage / chemically induced*
  • Humans
  • Hypoprothrombinemias / chemically induced*
  • International Normalized Ratio*
  • Male
  • Vaccinium macrocarpon*
  • Warfarin / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Warfarin