Final answer:
Warfarin (Coumadin) can undergo active and inactive metabolism in the liver, and renal metabolism, or be excreted unchanged.
Step-by-step explanation:
Warfarin, also known as Coumadin, undergoes different types of metabolism in the body.
a. Active metabolism in the liver: Warfarin is primarily metabolized in the liver, where it is transformed into its active form. This active form then inhibits the synthesis of clotting factors in the liver, helping prevent excessive blood clotting.
b. Inactive metabolism in the liver: Some of the metabolites of warfarin formed in the liver are inactive and do not contribute to its clotting factor inhibition properties.
c. Renal metabolism: Warfarin is also metabolized in the kidneys, where it can undergo further modification before being excreted.
d. No metabolism, excreted unchanged: A small portion of warfarin can be excreted unchanged without undergoing any metabolism in the body.