Brand name: Plavix (Clopidogrel)
Pronounced: PLA-vicks
Generic name: Clopidogrel bisulfate
Why is Plavix (Clopidogrel) prescribed?
Plavix (Clopidogrel) keeps blood platelets slippery and discourages formation of
clots, thereby improving blood flow to your heart, brain, and body.
The drug is prescribed to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke,
and serious circulation problems in people with hardening of the arteries
or unstable angina (dangerous chest pain), and in people who've already
suffered a heart attack or stroke.
Most important fact about Plavix (Clopidogrel) WITHOUT PRESCRIPTIONS
Because Plavix (Clopidogrel) slows clotting, it will take longer than usual to stop
bleeding. Be sure to report any unusual bleeding to your doctor immediately,
and tell any doctor or dentist planning a procedure that you have been
taking Plavix (Clopidogrel). You should discontinue the drug 5 days before any kind
of surgery.
How should you take Plavix (Clopidogrel)?
Plavix (Clopidogrel) can be taken with or without food.
If you miss a dose Plavix (Clopidogrel)
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next
dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.
Do not take 2 doses at the same time.
Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.
Plavix (Clopidogrel) side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue using Plavix (Clopidogrel).
* Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, back pain, bronchitis, bruising and bleeding under the skin,
chest pain, coughing, depression, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, dizziness,
fatigue, fluid retention and swelling, flu symptoms, headache, high blood
pressure, high cholesterol, indigestion, inflammation of the nasal passages,
itching, joint pain, nausea, pain, purple discoloration of skin, rash, upper
respiratorytract infection, urinary tract infection
Why should Plavix (Clopidogrel) not be prescribed?
Do not take Plavix (Clopidogrel) if you have a bleeding stomach ulcer or bleeding
in the area around the brain. Also avoid Plavix (Clopidogrel) if it gives you an
allergic reaction.
Special warnings about Plavix (Clopidogrel)
If you've ever had a stomach ulcer or bleeding in the digestive tract,
make sure the doctor is aware of it; Plavix (Clopidogrel) should be used with caution.
The drug should also be used carefully if you suffer from problems
inside the eyes, have bleeding problems due to severe liver disease,
or expect to be at risk of bleeding from any other cause.
In extremely rare cases (about 4 in a million), a dangerous bleeding
problem called thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura has been known to
develop in patients taking Plavix (Clopidogrel). Signs include fever and bleeding
under the skin. Call your doctor immediately if you develop these symptoms.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Plavix (Clopidogrel)
Plavix (Clopidogrel) increases the clot-fighting effect of aspirin. The two drugs
are often taken together, and combined treatment has lasted for up
to one year.
If Plavix (Clopidogrel) is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either
could be increased, decreased, or altered. Ask your doctor before starting
any new drug; and be doubly careful before combining Plavix (Clopidogrel) with the
following:
Aspirin
Fluvastatin (Lescol)
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Advil, Aleve, Motrin,
and Naprosyn
Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)
Tolbutamide (Orinase)
Torsemide (Demadex)
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Plavix (Clopidogrel) during pregnancy have not been adequately studied.
If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor
immediately. Use Plavix (Clopidogrel) during pregnancy only if absolutely necessary.
Do not breastfeed while taking Plavix (Clopidogrel), since the drug may appear in
breast milk.
Recommended dosage for Plavix (Clopidogrel)
ADULTS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you
suspect an overdose of Plavix (Clopidogrel), seek medical attention immediately.
