Plavix

Common Name: clopidogrel

How does Plavix work?

Clopidogrel is used to help prevent heart attacks, strokes, and other circulation problems for people who have atherosclerosis (narrowed blood vessels caused by "hardening of the arteries") and who have already experienced at least one blood clotting event (such as heart attack or stroke), or for people with acute coronary syndromes. Normally, platelets help the blood to clot when needed, such as after an injury. When arteries become narrowed by fat deposits, platelets often clump together. This further narrows the arteries and increases the chance of heart attack, stroke, or other circulation problems. Clopidogrel reduces the risk of these events by preventing platelets from forming into clumps. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Plavix?

The recommended adult dose of clopidogrel is 75 mg once daily with or without food. When used by people with acute coronary syndromes, a 300 mg "loading dose" is initially prescribed. After this, treatment starts with 75 mg once daily. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your dosing schedule. Do not double up the dose.

What form(s) does Plavix come in?

Each round, pink, film-coated tablet contains clopidogrel 75 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: pregelatinized starch, anhydrous lactose, hydrogenated castor oil, microcrystalline cellulose and polyethylene glycol; film-coating: carnauba wax, ferric oxide (red), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, polyethylene glycol, and titanium dioxide. This medication does not contain yeast or gluten.

What should I NOT take with Plavix?

Clopidogrel should not be taken by anyone who: is sensitive or allergic to clopidogrel or any ingredient of the medication has an active bleeding condition such as a bleeding stomach ulcer or a brain hemorrhage has significant liver disease or cholestatic jaundice

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Plavix?

Medical conditions: Before taking clopidogrel, tell your doctor of any medical conditions you have, especially: allergies ulcers abnormal blood disorders serious injury recent surgery liver disease reduced kidney function Occupational hazards: Use caution while operating machinery or performing hazardous tasks (such as driving) until you determine how this medication affects you. Pregnancy: Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Breast-feeding: Clopidogrel is not recommended for use while breast-feeding, as it is believed to pass into breast milk. Children: The safety and effectiveness of this medication for children under 18 years of age have not been established.