Manufacturer: Sanofi Aventis
Pharmaceutical name: Clopidogrel
Pack: 28 pills (75 mg)
Plavix (Clopidogrel) prevents blood platelets from sticking together (coagulating) to avert the formation of unwanted blood clots that can arise from certain heart or vascular conditions. It is utilized to stop blood clots following a recent heart attack or stroke, and for individuals with specific heart or blood vessel disorders. Plavix may also be prescribed for additional uses that are not detailed in this medication guide.
You might experience internal bleeding, which can occur in your stomach or intestines. If you notice black or bloody stools, or if you cough up blood or vomit that resembles coffee grounds, contact your doctor immediately. These symptoms could indicate bleeding in your digestive system.
Avoid consuming alcohol, as it may heighten your risk of internal bleeding. If you require surgery or dental procedures, inform the surgeon or dentist in advance that you are taking Plavix. You might need to discontinue the medication for at least 5 days prior to surgery to minimize the risk of excessive bleeding. Adhere to your doctor's guidance and resume taking Plavix as soon as it is safe to do so.
Do not take Plavix if you are allergic to clopidogrel, or if you are currently experiencing active bleeding, such as from a stomach ulcer or a brain hemorrhage (e.g., due to a head injury).
If you have certain other conditions, you might require a dosage adjustment or specific tests: a bleeding or clotting disorder, like TTP (thrombocytopenic purpura) or hemophilia; a history of strokes, including TIA ("mini-stroke"); a stomach ulcer or ulcerative colitis; or kidney disease.
FDA pregnancy category B. Plavix is not anticipated to have adverse effects on an unborn child. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this treatment. It is unclear whether clopidogrel enters breast milk or could negatively affect a nursing infant. You should not breastfeed while taking Plavix.
The side effects of clopidogrel are comparable to those of aspirin. Diarrhea, rash, or itching affects about 1 in 20 individuals on Clopidogrel. Abdominal pain is also reported in roughly 1 in 20 people, though it occurs less frequently than with aspirin.