Dicoumarol

Dicoumarol is a naturally occurring anticoagulant that functions as a functional vitamin K antagonist (similar to warfarin). It is derived from the sweet clover plant, which can produce dicoumarol when it undergoes fermentation. Dicoumarol was discovered in the 1940s when it was linked to a bleeding disease in cattle that had consumed spoiled sweet clover.

History

Dicoumarol was discovered in the 1940s when it was linked to a bleeding disease in cattle that had consumed spoiled sweet clover. The disease, known as "sweet clover disease", was characterized by a prolonged prothrombin time, which is a measure of the blood's ability to clot. The disease was traced back to a compound in the spoiled sweet clover, which was identified as dicoumarol.

Mechanism of Action

Dicoumarol works by inhibiting the enzyme vitamin K epoxide reductase, which is involved in the recycling of vitamin K. This prevents the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors in the liver, including Factors II, VII, IX, and X, as well as the anticoagulant proteins C and S. This results in a decrease in the blood's ability to clot.

Uses

Dicoumarol was used as a pharmaceutical anticoagulant until the 1950s, when it was replaced by warfarin. Today, it is primarily used in biochemical research.

Side Effects

The main side effect of dicoumarol is bleeding, which can be severe. Other side effects can include skin necrosis and purple toe syndrome.

See Also

• Warfarin
• Anticoagulant
• Vitamin K
• Prothrombin time

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