Plavix

Plavix is a drug prescribed for preventing blood clots after a heart attack. It is also given to patients with certain disorders of the blood vessels.

Drug usage

Plavix treats blood clots after a heart attack. The drug acts by preventing the platelets from coagulating.

How taken

Plavix can be taken in empty stomach or with food. Always take the medicine with a full glass of water. Always follow the prescription while you are on Plavix medication. Never go for larger doses or take the drug for more days unless prescribed by the physician. If Plavix is used in larger amounts or taken for long periods, then there is a higher risk of the side effects.

Missed dose/overdose

Never miss any dose of Plavix. If you miss a dose, you can take it when you realise it. But if the regular dosage time is almost near, skip the missed one. Never compensate for a missed dose.

Well, if you have taken an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Some of the overdose symptoms include feeling exhausted, vomiting, shortness of breath and blood in stools/vomit.

More information

Discuss with your doctor all your health history. The doctor may not prescribe Plavix or he may go for a dosage adjustment if you have any of these conditions:

haemophilia, history of stroke, stomach ulcer and liver/kidney problems.

Plavix is FDA pregnancy category B. Even though Plavix is not known to affect the foetus, pregnant women and those who hope to get conceived soon should have to consult the doctor before taking the drug. It is also not known if the drug passes into breast milk. But feed the new born only after contacting the doctor.

Warnings/precautions

Plavix is not prescribed if you have allergies to clopidogrel.

The doctor may stop Plavix for a short period before any surgery or dental work. Another thing that should be kept in mind is not to miss the lab tests and also the doctor’s appointments. Frequent lab tests are needed for regular checking of the blood.

Plavix should b avoided if you are taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. It is better to avoid cuts while taking Plavix. While taking Plavix, alcohol should be avoided as it only increases the risk of stomach or intestinal bleeding.

Side effets

Every drug comes with allergic reactions and side effects. Some of the allergic reactions related to plavix are swelling (throat, face, mouth and lips), hives and breathing difficulty. If you come across these allergies, seek immediate medical help.

Some of the serious side effects that come with Plavix include bleeding that never stops, black/ bloody/tarry stools, vomit looking like coffee grounds, coughing up blood, chest pain, pain spreading to arms or shoulder, sweating, nausea, sudden numbness, sudden headache, vision problems, speech or balance problems, pale skin, weakness and urinating more or less. If you experience any of these side effects, stop Plavix and consult the doctor immediately.

The less serious side effects that come with Plavix include: runny nose, stomach pain, cough and mild headache.