What is Coumadin (warfarin) primarily used for?

Coumadin, known generically as warfarin, is primarily used for its anticoagulant properties, making it effective for blood thinning. This medication works by inhibiting vitamin K-dependent clotting factors in the liver, which are essential for the blood clotting process. By reducing the formation of these clotting factors, warfarin decreases the blood's ability to clot, which is crucial in preventing and treating thromboembolic events such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and stroke in patients with conditions such as atrial fibrillation or those with mechanical heart valves.

The role of warfarin in managing clotting risks is vital in many patients, especially those with certain cardiovascular issues. Other provided options relate to different therapeutic purposes that do not align with the primary use of warfarin: controlling blood pressure, treating infections, or managing pain do not involve anticoagulation and thus highlight the importance of understanding specific drug actions and indications in pharmacology.