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Plavix (Clopidogrel)
Clopidogrel is used to prevent strokes and heart attacks in persons who are
at high risk. In one large study, clopidogrel was more effective than aspirin
in reducing heart attacks. The frequency of side effects of clopidogrel was
similar to aspirin; however, stomach and intestinal bleeding probably occurs
less often with clopidogrel than with aspirin.
How Taken
Take clopidogrel exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand
these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to
you. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Clopidogrel can be taken with
or without food.
Drug Class and Mechanism
Clopidogrel is an anti-platelet drug, that is, a drug that inhibits the
ability of platelets to clump together as part of a blood clot. It is similar
to ticlopidine (Ticlid) in chemical structure and in the way it works. Unlike
ticlopidine, clopidogrel does not cause serious reductions of white cells in
the blood and, therefore, routine blood testing to determine if the white blood
cell count is low is not necessary during treatment. The risk of heart attacks
and strokes (which usually are caused by blood clots) is increased in patients
with a recent history of stroke or heart attack and patients with peripheral
vascular disease. (Peripheral vascular disease is the same as atherosclerotic
arterial disease or "hardening" of the arteries in which the arteries become
narrowed. It frequently occurs in the legs and often causes claudication or
pain in the legs upon walking). Clopidogrel is used to reduce the risk of heart
attacks and strokes in these patients. Clopidogrel was approved by the FDA in
1997.
Missed Dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time
for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled
dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
Storage
Tablets should be stored at room temperature, 15-30 degrees C (59-86 degrees
F), away from moisture and heat.
Warnings/Precautions
Tell your doctor and dentist that you are taking this medication before
having any surgical procedures. Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil,
Nuprin, others), naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox, Naprosyn, others), ketoprofen (Orudis,
Orudis KT, Oruvail), indomethacin (Indocin), nabumetone (Relafen), oxaprozin
(Daypro), or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) without
first talking to your doctor. It may take longer than usual for you to stop
bleeding, even from minor wounds. Tell your doctor about any unusual bleeding
or bruising that you experience. Studies in rats have shown that clopidogrel
appears in breast milk; however, it is not known whether it also appears in
human breast milk. Because of a potential for side effects in the nursing infant,
the physician must weigh the potential benefits and possible risks before prescribing
clopidogrel in nursing mothers.
More Information
- If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking
clopidogrel and seek emergency medical attention or notify your doctor immediately:
- an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling
of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
- bloody (or black) vomit or stools;
- severe headache, confusion, or dizziness;
- unexplained bruising or bleeding; or
- bleeding nose.
- Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to
take clopidogrel and talk to your doctor if you experience
- upset stomach;
- diarrhea or constipation; or
- headache or dizziness.
- Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor
about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
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High Quality Plavix