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.