Plavix

Generic name: Clopidogrel bisulfate

What is Plavix?

Plavix is used to treat people who have recently had a heart attack, stroke, or arterial disease; this drug will reduce the probability of experiencing these events again.

Plavix is also used to treat Acute Coronary syndrome; it will reduce the probability of experiencing a heart attack, or stoke.

What is the most important information I should know about Plavix?

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) has been reported in people being treated with Plavix. TTP is a very serious condition in which red blood cells burst and platelets form blood clots, potentially blocking blood supply to organs. TTP feels like the flu, with symptoms such as fever, tiredness, and aching joints.

Who should not take Plavix?

Do not take Plavix if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

Plavix should not be used in patients with active bleeding such as stomach ulcer or brain hemorrhage.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Plavix?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Plavix. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a stomach ulcer or any other type of internal bleeding, or if you have liver or kidney problems. If you are going to have surgery, it is recommended that treatment with Plavix is stopped 5 days before the surgery.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Recent MI, Recent Stroke, or Established Peripheral Arterial Disease

Adults: The recommended daily dose of Plavix is 75 milligrams (mg) once daily.

Acute Coronary Syndrome

Adults: The recommended daily dose of Plavix is a single 300 mg loading dose and then continued at 75 mg once daily. Aspirin (75 mg-325 mg once daily) should be started and continued in combination with Plavix.

How should I take Plavix?

Plavix can be taken with or without food. There are no dosage adjustments for the elderly with liver problems.

What should I avoid while taking Plavix?

You should avoid aspirin or aspirin-containing products during drug therapy unless approved by your healthcare professional.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Plavix?

If Plavix is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Plavix with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or warfarin. Plavix may interfere with the metabolism of phenytoin, tamoxifen, tolbutamide, warfarin, torsemide, and fluvastatin.

What are the possible side effects of Plavix?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: bruising easily, chest pain, increased blood pressure, coughing, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, flu-like symptoms, headache, itching, pain, joint pain/back pain, nasal infection, nausea, rash, sleepiness/tiredness, stomach pain

Can I receive Plavix if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are nursing, before taking Plavix, as you should only take this drug if it is necessary. Plavix may pass into your breast milk.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Plavix?

If you miss a dose of Plavix, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take your next regular dose. Do not double your next dose.

How should I store Plavix?

Store at room temperature.