What complication can arise due to the anticoagulant effects of Coumadin?

The anticoagulant effects of Coumadin (warfarin) primarily aim to reduce the risk of blood clots and thrombotic events. However, a notable complication that can arise from its use is an increased risk of bleeding. Warfarin works by inhibiting vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, which can lead to a disruption in the hemostatic balance. As a result, patients on warfarin therapy may experience bleeding complications, which can manifest as easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts, or more severe internal bleeding.

The increased risk of bleeding can vary depending on dosage, interactions with other medications, dietary factors, and individual patient characteristics such as liver function and genetic factors. Monitoring through INR (International Normalized Ratio) is essential to ensure that the anticoagulant effect is within a therapeutic range to minimize the risk of such complications while still providing the intended anticoagulation benefits.

The other options mentioned do not relate directly to the anticoagulant effects of Coumadin. Thrombosis would be counterintuitive as it is the complication that anticoagulation aims to prevent, while gastrointestinal reflux and skin rashes are not directly associated with the anticoagulant effects of warfarin.