What is a common side effect associated with the use of Warfarin?

Warfarin is an anticoagulant medication that works by inhibiting the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, which are essential for blood coagulation. While it is effective in preventing the formation of harmful blood clots, one of the most significant and common side effects associated with its use is an increased risk of hemorrhage. This occurs because the anticoagulation effect can lead to a decreased ability of the blood to clot. Patients on Warfarin must be monitored regularly for their International Normalized Ratio (INR) to ensure their blood's clotting ability stays within a safe range. This heightened bleeding risk is a crucial factor that healthcare providers must manage while prescribing Warfarin, making education about potential signs of bleeding and safe practices essential for patients on this medication.