About Plavix® (Clopidogrel)
Generic Name : Clopidogrel
Brand name: Plavix®
Plavix® Uses:
Plavix® is used to reduce the risk of stroke or heart attack. It works by preventing excessive blood
clotting. Clopidogrel bisulfate is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for
more information.
How should Plavix be used?
Plavix comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken once a day. Follow the directions on your
prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.
Take Plavix® exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed
by your doctor. Continue to take Clopidogrel even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Clopidogrel without
talking to your doctor.
Plavix® Precautions:
Before taking plavix, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Plavix® or any other
drugs. Tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking,
especially anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as warfarin (Coumadin); aspirin; fluvastatin (Lescol);
ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin); medications for arthritis, pain, or headaches; naproxen (Naprosyn); phenytoin
(Dilantin); tamoxifen (Nolvadex); ticlopidine (Ticlid); tolbutamide (Orinase); torsemide (Demadex); and
vitamins. Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver or kidney disease; any stomach problems,
ulcers; any other gastrointestinal disease; or any bleeding or blood disorders. Tell your doctor if you
are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking Plavix®,
call your doctor. If you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that
you are taking Clopidogrel bisulfate.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip
the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a
missed one.
Plavix® SIde Effects:
Although side effects from Clopidogrel bisulfate are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any
of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- upset stomach
- fatigue, muscle aches (flu-like symptoms)
- stomach pain
- headache
- diarrhea
- constipation
- rash or purple areas on skin
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- chest pain
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- bloody vomit
- dark urine
- bloody diarrhea or black, tarry stools
- fever
- confusion or coma
- yellowness of the skin or eyes
- blood in the urine
What storage conditions are needed for Plavix®?
Keep Clopidogrel bisulfate in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.
Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw
away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper
disposal of your medication.
Other Plavix® Information:
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to
check your response to Plavix®.
Plavix® prevents blood from clotting so it may take longer than usual for you to stop bleeding if you
are cut or injured. Avoid activities that have a high risk of causing injury. Call your doctor if
bleeding is unusual.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling
your prescription.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and
judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed
to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare
professional before using this drug. No liability can be taken as a result of using this information.
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