PTCE Top 200 · #116

Warfarin

Coumadin

Warfarin is the generic name for the brand-name drug Coumadin. It is a vitamin k antagonist anticoagulant used to treat anticoagulation (afib, DVT). On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Warfarin ranks #116 and is one of the most frequently tested cardiovascular medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.

Generic nameWarfarin
Brand name(s)Coumadin
Drug classVitamin K antagonist anticoagulant
Class groupCardiovascular
Common useanticoagulation (afib, DVT)
DEA scheduleUnscheduled
AvailabilityPrescription only (Rx)

What is Warfarin used for?

Vitamin K antagonist anticoagulant used to prevent and treat thromboembolism (e.g., DVT/PE) and reduce stroke risk in atrial fibrillation; used for mechanical heart valves.

What drug class is Warfarin?

Warfarin is a Vitamin K antagonist anticoagulant in the Cardiovascular group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.

Common side effects of Warfarin

Major interactions

Is Warfarin a controlled substance?

No. Warfarin is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).

warning Boxed warning

WARNING: BLEEDING RISK — can cause major or fatal bleeding; requires regular INR monitoring; many drugs/diet changes affect INR.

How to remember Warfarin (PTCE mnemonic)

COUM-adin = WARfarin WARs on vitamin K (factors 2,7,9,10). Goal INR 2-3 (AFib/DVT) or 2.5-3.5 (mech valve); consistent vit-K diet; vit-K antidote; teratogen.
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PTCE exam tip

Warfarin is THE monitoring drug: INR goal 2–3, vitamin K as the reversal agent, and endless food/drug interactions — contrast with DOACs like apixaban that need no routine INR.

Warfarin FAQ

What is the brand name for Warfarin?

The brand name for Warfarin is Coumadin.

What is Warfarin used for?

Warfarin is used to treat anticoagulation (afib, DVT). Vitamin K antagonist anticoagulant used to prevent and treat thromboembolism (e.g., DVT/PE) and reduce stroke risk in atrial fibrillation; used for mechanical heart valves.

What drug class is Warfarin?

Warfarin is a Vitamin K antagonist anticoagulant (Cardiovascular group).

Is Warfarin a controlled substance?

No. Warfarin is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).

Related drugs in the Cardiovascular group

Drill Warfarin the way the PTCE asks it

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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).