Warfarin absorption after massive small bowel resection

Am J Gastroenterol. 1985 Feb;80(2):99-102.

Abstract

Small bowel resection is often accompanied by malabsorption and nutritional deficiencies. Malabsorption of drugs may also occur; however, few reports have been published. We treated five patients with oral warfarin for thrombotic problems after substantial small bowel resection. All five had a documented hypoprothrombinemic response to the warfarin (patient prothrombin time: control greater than 1.5). Maintenance warfarin doses were up to 10 mg/day. Oral warfarin appears to be well absorbed after removal of the majority of the jejunum and ileum. This may indicate a proximal site of warfarin absorption.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Absorption*
  • Intestine, Small / surgery*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prothrombin Time
  • Thromboembolism / drug therapy
  • Warfarin / metabolism*
  • Warfarin / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Warfarin