INR test
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
The INR test (International Normalised Ratio) is a blood test that measures how long it takes for your blood to clot. It is commonly used to monitor people who take blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) to ensure their blood is not too thin (risky for bleeding) or too thick (risky for clotting).
Key facts
- INR stands for International Normalised Ratio – a standard way of reporting clotting time.
- A normal INR for someone not taking blood thinners is usually around 1.0 to 1.2.
- The target INR range for most people on blood-thinning medication is between 2.0 and 3.0, depending on their condition.
The INR test is very common for people taking certain blood-thinning medications. It is also used in hospitals to check clotting in people with liver disease or before surgeries.
The INR test is performed on people who take anticoagulant medication, those with liver problems, and anyone who experiences unexplained bleeding or clotting issues. It is not a test for a specific condition but a tool to assess clotting function.