If you've recently received a free sample pack of Coumadin from your doctor, do not use it.

The FDA just issued an urgent recall alert for sample packs of Coumadin in the 1 mg strength- -because taking these pills could put you in dire straits.

Bristol-Myers Squibb initiated the recall when it realized that a key ingredient--the one that activates the Coumadin-- wasn't working properly, which could make your medication extremely dangerous, if not deadly.

In some cases, the dose may be too high, which can increase your risk of bleeding. For others, the dose could be too low, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke.

Either way, this free Coumadin sample could end up costing your life.

The unsafe sample packs are from the following lot numbers: Physician Sample Blister Packs: Lot# 9A48931A, 9A48931B, 9A48931C, expiration January 2012; HUD Blister Pack: Lot# 8F34006B, 8K44272A, 8K46168A, 9F44437A and 9K58012B with expiration dates between June 2011 and November 2012.

Any adverse reactions may also be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Program by fax at 1-800- FDA-0178, by mail at MedWatch, HF-2, FDA, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20852-9787, or on the MedWatch website at www.fda.gov.