Warfarin linked to ‘increased stroke risk’

A widely-used anti-clotting pill can double the risk of stroke when patients with a faulty heart rhythm first start taking it, a study has found.

Researchers believe warfarin may deactivate two naturally occurring anti- clotting proteins before its blood-thinning effects are felt. After 30 days, the drug halves the risk of stroke.

Although only a small number of patients are believed to be at risk, the study authors urged doctors to be vigilant.