Question

Which drugs needs continuous monitoring of prothrombin time ?

• A. Aspirin
• B. Lepirudin
• C. Digoxin
• D. Coumadin

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The drug that requires continuous monitoring of prothrombin time is Coumadin. Here's why:

1. Mechanism of Action: Coumadin, also known as Warfarin, is an anticoagulant that works by inhibiting vitamin K-dependent clotting factors. This action reduces the blood's ability to clot.
2. Importance of Monitoring: The therapeutic range for Warfarin is narrow, meaning slight deviations in dose can lead to either ineffective treatment or increased risk of bleeding.
3. Monitoring Prothrombin Time: Prothrombin time (PT) and the derived measure, International Normalized Ratio (INR), are used to monitor Warfarin therapy to ensure that blood coagulation levels are within a safe and effective range.
4. Risk Management: Continuous monitoring helps in adjusting doses to maintain INR within a target range, thereby minimizing risks such as thrombosis or bleeding complications.

Other drugs listed (Aspirin, Lepirudin, Digoxin) do not require routine monitoring of prothrombin time. Therefore, the correct choice is Coumadin.