What is the target INR for patients with recurrent DVT receiving warfarin?

The target International Normalized Ratio (INR) for patients with recurrent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) who are receiving warfarin is typically set at a higher range due to the increased risk of thrombosis in these patients. The recommended INR range for such individuals is usually between 2.0 and 3.0 for general anticoagulation, but for those with recurrent DVT, the target is more stringent, often set at around 3.0, or slightly higher, which includes the higher target of 3.5 in specific circumstances.

Setting the target INR at 3.5 allows for a greater anticoagulant effect, which is crucial for preventing further thrombotic events in patients who have had recurrent episodes, thereby balancing the risk of clot formation with the risk of bleeding complications. This higher target reflects the clinical approach to ensuring adequate anticoagulation for those at increased risk.

In contrast, targets of 2.0 or 2.5 do not provide sufficient anticoagulation in the context of recurrent DVT, as they are generally recommended for conditions with a lower risk of thromboembolic events. A target of 4.0 is considered excessively high for most patients, significantly increasing the risk