Plavix (clopidogrel bisulfate) is a blood thinner for persons at risk of heart attack, stroke, or suffering from certain other disorders. Plavix is one of the most thoroughly researched and frequently prescribed medications of its kind.

Who Uses Plavix?

Plavix is for individuals who have previously suffered a heart attack or stroke, have been diagnosed with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) or peripheral vascular disease, have heart-related chest pains, unstable angina, or are otherwise at increased risk from blood clots. It is proven effective at both reducing symptoms and preventing recurrences of heart attack and stroke.

This product is also frequently recommended after certain medical procedures, such as a cardiac stent or balloon angioplasty, in which it is vital to prevent clots and keep blood flowing freely.

This product should not be taken with first consulting a physician.

How does it Work?

Plavix inhibits coagulation; that is, the ability of blood platelets to clump together and form a blood clot. Blood clots are a particular concern among those who have recently suffered a heart attack or stroke. Inhibition of clotting allows blood to flow unrestricted through blood vessels.

Genetic factors present in some individuals may render this medication less effective. It is not unusual for a physician to request a genetic test prior to recommending this product. Likewise certain other prescription and non-prescription medications may interfere with effectiveness or increase the severity of side effects.

Dosage:

Plavix is typically taken in pill form once a day, at the same time each day. It can be taken with or without food. If a dose is missed simply skip it and take the next dose at the regular time, unless otherwise instructed by a physician.

Duration of treatment varies from a few weeks to several years, depending on the medical condition being treated and the patient's response.

It's important to follow doctor instructions carefully when taking this product. Discontinuing use early may increase heart attack or stroke risk. Never take more than the recommended amount of this medication; seek medical attention immediately if too much is taken.

Use of this or any other blood thinner may need to be temporarily suspended prior to surgery or dental work. Consult a physician before undergoing any procedures.

Ingredients:

Active ingredient: clopidogrel bisulfate

Inactive ingredients: Carnauba wax, microcrystalline cellulose, triacetin, ferric oxide, hydroxypropylcellulose, titanium dioxide, hydrogenated castor oil, hypromellose 2910, mannitol, lactose monohydrate, polyethylene glycol 6000

Side Effects:

This product is designed to treat serious medical conditions and should never be taken without first consulting a physician.

Plavix has been extensively tested and used by over 115 million patients since it became available in 1997. Side effects are rare but may range from mild to serious, even life-threatening.

Because this medication inhibits the body's ability to form blood clots, excessive bleeding is a concern:

• Patients may bruise and bleed more easily
• Even minor wounds may require medical attention if bleeding persists
• Nosebleeds may occur more frequently and last longer

More serious side effects warrant medical attention:

• Confusion or difficulty speaking
• Blood in urine, stools or vomit
• Coughing up blood
• Unexpected, unexplained or uncontrolled bleeding
• Large, unexplained bruising
• Seizures
• Coma
  

Do not take while pregnant or nursing without explicit physician recommendation. Avoid consumption of alcohol for the duration of treatment.

Interactions:

Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding when used in combination with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or Warfarin.

In some cases a physician may recommend taking Plavix in combination with aspirin.

The diagnosing physician or health care provider should always be made aware of all currently taken medications, including non-prescription and supplemental, to prevent potentially dangerous interactions or reduced effectiveness.

Contraindications:

Persons with any chronic bleeding conditions, such as ulcers, or who are hypersensitive to any of the ingredients, should not take this or any other blood thinning medication.