Is life expectancy reduced by coumadin therapy?

No. Properly used - and monitored with PT and INR levels, Coumadin (warfarin) can potentially prolong life (e.g. by minimizing the risk of blood clots, strokes and other cardiovascular pathologies).

However, risk of bleeding is enhanced by this anticoagulant therapy. Thus, if the patient is at increased risk of falling, cerebral hemorrage could occur - and this could end up reducing one's life expectancy.

Ultimately, the benefits of coumadin therapy must be weighed against the risks.