Which mnemonic can aid in recalling the contraindications for warfarin therapy?

• A. D - Digoxin, S - Statins, B - Bactrim, A - Alcohol
• B. D - Dantrolene, S - Sulfa drugs, B - Bactrim, A - Alcohol
• C. D - Diltiazem, S - Safety drugs, B - Beta-blockers, A - Aspirin
• D. D - Dietary changes, S - Supplements, B - Blood pressure meds, A - Antidepressants

Answer: (B)

The selected mnemonic effectively captures key contraindications for warfarin therapy by associating them with familiar terms that can trigger recall. The components of this mnemonic highlight contraindications that could increase the risk of bleeding or adverse drug interactions when a patient is on warfarin.

• D for Dantrolene relates to a specific concern with potential hepatotoxicity that can affect warfarin metabolism.

• S for Sulfa drugs points to medications that can potentiate the effects of warfarin through albumin binding displacement, thus increasing anticoagulant activity.

• B for Bactrim addresses a known interaction where trimethoprim can increase INR due to its impact on warfarin metabolism.

• A for Alcohol indicates that excessive alcohol consumption can significantly affect warfarin's efficacy and safety by interfering with its metabolism and increasing bleeding risk.

This mnemonic serves as a valuable tool for students and healthcare providers to remember critical drug interactions and contraindications associated with warfarin therapy, emphasizing the importance of vigilance in managing anticoagulation therapy.