What is Plavix?

Plavix (clopidogrel) prevents platelets in your blood from sticking together to form an unwanted blood clot that could block an artery. Plavix 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.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Plavix can be taken with or without food.
• Plavix is sometimes taken together with aspirin. Take aspirin only if your doctor tells you to.
• Plavix keeps your blood from coagulating (clotting) and can make it easier for you to bleed, even from a minor injury.
• Do not stop taking Plavix 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.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history, especially of: bleeding conditions (such as stomach ulcers, bleeding in the brain/eye), recent surgery, serious injury/trauma, liver disease, bleeding disease (such as hemophilia).

Also be aware that:

• To lower the chance of getting cut, bruised, or injured, use caution with sharp objects like razors and nail cutters, and avoid activities such as contact sports.
• This medicine may cause stomach bleeding
• Daily use of alcohol while using this medicine may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Limit alcoholic beverages. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about how much alcohol you may safely drink.
• During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed.

Common side-effects may include but are not limited to:

• Easy bleeding/bruising, stomach upset/pain, diarrhea, and constipation may occur.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following side-effects:

• Although unlikely, serious bleeding in the stomach, gut, eyes, or brain may occur. Also, clopidogrel can rarely cause a very serious blood disorder (thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura-TTP). Symptoms may appear any time after starting this medication. Get medical help right away if any of these symptoms occur: severe stomach/abdominal pain, uncontrolled bleeding from gums or nose, bloody/black stools, confusion, fever, extreme skin paleness, purple skin patches, fainting, fast heartbeat, sudden severe headache, unusual weakness/tiredness, vomit with blood or that looks like coffee grounds, slurred speech, vision changes, seizures, yellowing eyes/skin, bloody/red/pink/dark urine, signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine).
• Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
• Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction such as rashes, itching, swelling especially of the face, tongue or throat, severe dizziness or trouble breathing.

Q: What special dietary instructions should I follow?

A: Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

Q: What should I do if I forget a dose?

A: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.