From the Research
Rhubarb juice is unlikely to increase INR in patients taking warfarin, as there is limited evidence to suggest a significant interaction between the two. The most recent and highest quality study on the topic of herbal formulas and warfarin interaction found that the use of herbal formulas may not influence INR value 1. While there are case reports of other substances, such as cranberry juice, interacting with warfarin to increase INR 2, 3, 4, there is no specific evidence to suggest that rhubarb juice has a similar effect. It is still important for patients on warfarin to exercise caution with any dietary changes and inform their healthcare providers about any potential interactions, as individual responses to warfarin can vary greatly due to factors such as age, body weight, and nutritional status 5. Regular INR monitoring is crucial for patients on warfarin, especially when making any changes to their diet or medication regimen. Some key points to consider include:
- Maintaining consistent intake of rhubarb juice if it is regularly consumed
- Informing healthcare providers about any rhubarb in the diet
- Monitoring for unusual bruising, bleeding, or significant INR changes after consuming rhubarb
- Understanding that individual responses to warfarin can vary greatly due to various patient factors.