ORIGINAL USES (ON-LABEL)
Reducing the risk of stroke, MI (myocardial infarction), peripheral arterial disease in high-risk patients, acute coronary syndrome
BRAND NAME Plavix
DRUG CLASS
Antiplatelet/Aggregation Inhibitor
DESCRIPTION
This drug used to prevent strokes or heart attacks occurring in people at risk, particularly in those who have had a previous stroke or heart attack.
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
Bleeding from the stomach, intestines, or elsewhere can occur. Other side effects may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, constipation, diarrhoea, headache, dizziness, and rashes.
CAUTIONS
Plavix should not be taken by people with bleeding peptic ulcers or bleeding from other sites.
It is not recommended for people with severe angina or for those who have had coronary-artery surgery.
It should be used with caution in people with liver or kidney disease.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Fluvastatin, phenytoin, tamoxifen, tolbutamide, torsemide. Warfarin should not be used with Plavix.
Anticoagulants: their effects are enhanced by clopidogrel.
NSAIDS (including aspirin): may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
FOOD INTERACTIONS
Unknown
HERBAL INTERACTIONS
Unknown
PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING CAUTIONS
Pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Do not take Plavix without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
SPECIAL INFORMATION
Inform clinician of signs and symptoms of bleeding, prior to surgery, dental work; inform clinician of sore throat, fever, etc. (consider neutropenia)
