Plavix

Plavix

     * Generic Name: clopidogrel bisulfate
     * Brand Name: Plavix


     * What is clopidogrel (Plavix)?
     * What are the possible side effects of clopidogrel (Plavix)?
     * What is the most important information I should know about
       clopidogrel (Plavix)?
     * What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking
       clopidogrel (Plavix)?
     * How should I take clopidogrel (Plavix)?
     * What happens if I miss a dose (Plavix)?
     * What happens if I overdose (Plavix)?
     * What should I avoid while taking clopidogrel (Plavix)?
     * What other drugs will affect clopidogrel (Plavix)?
     * Where can I get more information (Plavix)?

What is clopidogrel (Plavix)?

   Clopidogrel prevents platelets in your blood from sticking together
   to form an unwanted blood clot that could block an artery.

   Clopidogrel is used to lower your risk of having a stroke, blood
   clot, or serious heart problem after you've had a heart attack,
   severe chest pain (angina), or circulation problems.

   Clopidogrel may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication
   guide.

What are the possible side effects of clopidogrel (Plavix)?

   Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction:
   hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or
   throat.

   Clopidogrel increases your risk of bleeding, which can be severe or
   life-threatening. Call your doctor or seek emergency medical attention
   if you have bleeding that will not stop, if you have blood in your
   urine, black or bloody stools, or if you cough up blood or vomit
   that looks like coffee grounds.

   Also call your doctor at once if you have:
     * pale skin, easy bruising, purple spots under your skin or in
       your mouth;
     * jaundice (yellowing of your skin or eyes);
     * fast heartbeats, shortness of breath;
     * headache, fever, weakness, feeling tired;
     * little or no urination;
     * a seizure; or
     * signs of a blood clot--sudden numbness or weakness, confusion,
       problems with vision or speech.

   This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call
   your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side
   effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about clopidogrel
(Plavix)?

   You should not use this medicine if you have any active bleeding such
   as a stomach ulcer or bleeding in the brain.

   Clopidogrel increases your risk of bleeding, which can be severe or
   life-threatening. Call your doctor or seek emergency medical attention
   if you have bleeding that will not stop, if you have blood in your
   urine, black or bloody stools, or if you cough up blood or vomit that
   looks like coffee grounds.

   Do not stop taking clopidogrel without first talking to your doctor,
   even if you have signs of bleeding. Stopping clopidogrel may increase
   your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

   Plavix Patient Information including How Should I Take
   Heart Disease:The No. 1 Killer in the U.S.

   Heart Disease Slideshow Pictures
   RxList

   Medical Illustrations of the Heart Image Collection
   RxList

   Take the Heart Disease Quiz!

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking clopidogrel
(Plavix)?

   You should not use clopidogrel if you are allergic to it, or if you
   have:
     * any active bleeding; or
     * a stomach ulcer or bleeding in the brain (such as from a head
       injury).

   Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
     * an ulcer in your stomach or intestines; or
     * a bleeding disorder or blood clotting disorder.

   Clopidogrel may not work as well if you have certain genetic factors
   that affect the breakdown of this medicine in your body. Your doctor
   may perform a blood test to make sure clopidogrel is right for you.

   This medicine is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor
   if you are pregnant.

   You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.

How should I take clopidogrel (Plavix)?

   Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all
   medication guides or instruction sheets. Use these medicines exactly as
   directed.

   Clopidogrel can be taken with or without food.

   Clopidogrel is sometimes taken together with aspirin. Take aspirin only
   if your doctor tells you to.

   Clopidogrel keeps your blood from coagulating (clotting) and can make
   it easier for you to bleed, even from a minor injury. Contact your
   doctor or seek emergency medical attention if you have any bleeding
   that will not stop.

   You may need to stop using clopidogrel for a short time before a
   surgery, medical procedure, or dental work. Any healthcare provider who
   treats you should know that you are taking clopidogrel.

   Do not stop taking clopidogrel without first talking to your doctor,
   even if you have signs of bleeding. Stopping the medicine could
   increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

   Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

   Plavix Patient Information including If I Miss a Dose
   Heart Disease:The No. 1 Killer in the U.S.

   Heart Disease Slideshow Pictures
   RxList

   Medical Illustrations of the Heart Image Collection
   RxList

   Take the Heart Disease Quiz!

What happens if I miss a dose (Plavix)?

   Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is
   almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose (Plavix)?

   Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at
   1-800-222-1222. Overdose can cause excessive bleeding.

What should I avoid while taking clopidogrel (Plavix)?

   Avoid alcohol. It can increase your risk of stomach bleeding.

   Avoid activities that may increase your risk of bleeding or injury. Use
   extra care to prevent bleeding while shaving or brushing your teeth.

   If you also take aspirin: Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using
   medicines for pain, fever, swelling, or cold/flu symptoms. They may
   contain ingredients similar to aspirin (such as salicylates, ibuprofen,
   ketoprofen, or naproxen). Taking these products together can
   increase your risk of bleeding.

What other drugs will affect clopidogrel (Plavix)?

   Certain other medicines may increase your risk of bleeding, including
   aspirin. Avoid taking aspirin unless your doctor tells you to.

   Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:
     * any other medicines to treat or prevent blood clots;
     * a stomach acid reducer such as omeprazole, Nexium, or
       Prilosec;
     * an antidepressant;
     * a blood thinner--warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven; or
     * NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)--ibuprofen (Advil,
       Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), celecoxib, diclofenac,
       indomethacin, meloxicam, and others.

   This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect clopidogrel,
   including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and
   herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Where can I get more information (Plavix)?

   Your pharmacist can provide more information about clopidogrel.
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