Plavix
ClopidogrelIndications
- Clopidogrel is utilized to prevent heart attacks and strokes in individuals with heart disease (recent heart attack), recent stroke, or peripheral vascular disease.
- It is combined with aspirin to address new or worsening chest pain (new heart attack, unstable angina) and to maintain open blood vessels, preventing blood clots after specific procedures like cardiac stent placement.
- The mechanism of action involves blocking platelets, preventing their aggregation and the formation of harmful clots.
- Clopidogrel is classified as an antiplatelet drug, ensuring smooth blood flow within the body.
Dosage and administration
- Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before starting clopidogrel and with each refill. If questions arise, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
- Take the medication orally, with or without food, as directed by your doctor, typically once daily. Consistency in taking it at the same time each day is recommended for maximum benefit.
- Dosage and treatment duration depend on your medical condition and response. If using clopidogrel to prevent clots after a stent implant or procedure, take it with aspirin for the prescribed period (months to years), as directed by your doctor. Consult your doctor for details and risks of stopping early. Continue even if feeling well, and do not cease without consulting your doctor.
- Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice unless deemed safe by your doctor or pharmacist, as it can increase the risk of side effects. Seek more information from your healthcare provider.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you notice signs of the medication not working, such as symptoms of a new heart attack or stroke (chest/jaw/left arm pain, shortness of breath, unusual sweating, weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking, sudden vision changes, confusion).
Side effects
- Possible side effects of clopidogrel include easy bleeding/bruising, stomach upset/pain, diarrhea, and constipation. Notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly if these effects persist or worsen.
- This medication is prescribed because the benefits are deemed greater than the risk of side effects. Many users do not experience serious side effects.
- Serious bleeding in the stomach, gut, eyes, or brain is a rare but possible side effect. Clopidogrel can also rarely cause a severe blood disorder called thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). Seek immediate medical help if symptoms like severe abdominal pain, uncontrolled bleeding, confusion, fever, or other serious symptoms occur.
- A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare but requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.
- This list is not exhaustive, and if you observe other effects not mentioned, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, especially if you are allergic to clopidogrel or similar antiplatelet drugs.
- Discuss your medical history, especially bleeding conditions, recent surgery, serious injury/trauma, liver disease, and bleeding disorders like hemophilia, with your doctor before using this medication.
- To minimize the risk of cuts, bruises, or injuries, exercise caution with sharp objects and avoid activities that may lead to injury, such as contact sports.
- Before undergoing surgery, inform your doctor or dentist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products. Your doctor may advise you to discontinue clopidogrel before surgery, but do not stop taking it without consulting your cardiologist.
- Limit alcohol consumption while using this medication, as it may increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when clearly necessary, and discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It is unknown if clopidogrel passes into breast milk, so consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
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