Treatment of multiple sclerosis with high-dose corticosteroids may prolong the prothrombin time to dangerous levels in patients taking warfarin.
Two patients who were taking warfarin experienced significant prolongations of the prothrombin time (protime) after treatment with high-dose corticosteroids for rapid progression of MS. This complication of therapy is potentially life-threatening.
Kaufman
M
M
Multiple Sclerosis Center, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina 28232, USA.
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000328:Adult; D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001024:Aortic Valve Stenosis / Q000150:complications / Q000601:surgery; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004347:Drug Interactions; D005260:Female; D006350:Heart Valve Prosthesis; D006493:Heparin / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy*; D011517:Prothrombin Time; D014859:Warfarin / Q000009:adverse effects*
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D000925:Anticoagulants; D014859:Warfarin; D006493:Heparin