Plavix contains an active ingredient called Clopidogrel which is an antiplatelet used to inhibit platelet formation causing blood clots in the vessels.
Dosage:
The recommended dose is usually 75 mg per day. However, the dose may be tailored to the patient’s health.
For acute coronary syndrome in adults, the dose of clopidogrel is 300 mg, followed by 75 mg orally once a day before or after a meal.
Keep in mind:
- Before taking Plavix Tablet, tell your doctor if you have a history of allergies to this drug or similar antiplatelet drugs (such as prasugrel).
- Since this drug can cause stomach bleeding, the side effect worsens in individuals drinking alcohol frequently
- Tell your doctor if you have a history of bleeding conditions (such as an ulcer, brain/eye hemorrhage), recent surgery, serious injury/trauma, liver disease, or bleeding disease (such as hemophilia).
- Due to the use of this drug has the risk of hemorrhage and unwanted hematological effects, periodically monitor for signs of bleeding is required, such as Hb and hematocrit.
- Study data on patients with renal impairment and moderate to severe liver disease are very limited. Therefore, Plavix should be used carefully in patients with these conditions.
- Patients with rare hereditary problems such as galactose intolerance, lactase deficiency or galactose malabsorption should not use this drug.
Side effects of clopidogrel :
Stop using clopidogrel and consult your doctor right away if you have serious side effects* such as:
- Heavy bleeding anywhere on the body
- Blood in the urine or feces
- Vomiting or coughing blood
- Breathlessness
- Sudden loss of sensation, especially on one side of the body
- Sudden headache, confusion, blurred vision or difficulty in talking
- Pale, yellowish skin
- Easy bruising
*Remember: Not everyone experiences the following side effects. There might be several side effects that are not mentioned above. If you have any concerns about certain side effects, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Here are some possible interactions that may occur when taking clopidogrel in combination with other drugs:
- It interferes with the metabolism of clopidogrel if taken in combination with proton pump inhibitors, such as omeprazole, cimetidine, ticlopidine, fluvoxamine, fluoxetine, ketoconazole, and voriconazole.
- Clopidogrel can also slow down the release of repaglinide; which is a diabetic medication.
- In combination with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), it will increase the chance of bleeding.
- The use of Clopidogrel in combination with warfarin is not recommended as it may increase bleeding intensity.
For further information about Plavix, read more regarding Plavix dosage by Doctoroncall on our website.
