Clinical experience with an oral anticoagulant in children

Nineteen cardiac patients were given warfarin sodium to prevent thrombosis and embolism. Empirical dosage resulted in long hospital stays to obtain a stable therapeutic prothrombin time. Using a dosage of 0 therefore 5-0 therefore 7 mg/kg, therapeutic levels were achieved in a much shorter time. When prothrombin time was excessive, it was successfully reduced with vitamin K or plasma. A haematoma in one case and haematuria in another were easily controlled. Warfarin sodium appears to be appropriate and effective for children requiring anticoagulants within the above dosage limits and with meticulous follow-up.