Warfarin sodium is the active ingredient in Coumadin, Apo-Warfarin and Taro-Warfarin tablets. Taro-Warfarin tablets and Apo-Warfarin tablets are generic versions of Coumadin that contain the same active ingredients in the same strengths as Coumadin. These medications are also called anticoagulants and may be referred to as “blood thinners.”

The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care and Health Canada have approved two new brands of warfarin tablets. Apo-Warfarin or Taro-Warfarin may be supplied when you fill your Coumadin prescription. These brands of warfarin will have the same effect as the Coumadin brand of warfarin.

Yes. Extensive testing and evaluation by Health Canada and the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term care have demonstrated that either Apo-Warfarin or Taro-Warfarin may be safely and effectively used in place of Coumadin in all patients for all conditions. You will still require careful monitoring of your therapy, including regular INR tests, as you did while you were on Coumadin.

Please discuss this with your pharmacist. As the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care has determined that these products are interchangeable, you will be requested to pay the difference between the cost of Apo-Warfarin or Taro-Warfarin and the cost of Coumadin.

Yes. If your doctor has indicated that the pharmacist may not substitute an equivalent brand of warfarin for Coumadin, you will be asked to pay the difference in the cost of the drug. If you do not wish to pay the difference, ask your pharmacist to speak with your physician about using either Apo-Warfarin or Taro-Warfarin.

For more information please call (416) 327-8109.