Drug Uses

Plavix is useful in the treatment of heart attack and stroke. In one study, Plavix or Clopidogrel was found to be more effective than an aspirin in reducing heart attacks.

Usage

Following the dosage instructions of your doctor is the best way to use any medication. If you are unsure or do not remember the instructions then you may read the medicine label for more detailed information.

You may choose to take Plavix with a meal to avoid an upset stomach or without one.

Please drink a full glass of water with Plavix.

It is very important that you complete the dosage schedule and do not interrupt it in between without seeking prior consultation from your doctor.

Taking your medication at the same time each day is a tried and tested method to avoid missing any doses.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Plavix being an anti-platelet drug seeks to inhibit the capability of platelets to cluster together as part of blood clot. Being similar to ticlopidine or Ticlid in the chemical structure as well as the way it seeks to work. However unlike Ticlid, Plavix is not responsible for the serious reductions of white cells in blood. So it is recommended that routine blood tests must be carried out in order to verify if there is a reduction in white blood cell count, not necessarily during the treatment. The danger of strokes and heart attacks is mainly increased in the patients with a history of heart attack or stroke and even in patients with peripheral vascular disease. Clopidogrel or Plavix is useful in reducing the risk of heart attacks as well as strokes in the patients. It was accepted by the FDA in 1997.

Missed Dose

Despite your best attempts at remembering, if you still miss out on a dose, then take it as soon as you remember about it. But keep in mind that you will have to adjust your next dose by spacing it out by 4 to 5 hours. If this is not possible, then the best thing to do would be to skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosage schedule.

Never try to compensate for the missed dose by taking a double dose together. It may cause adverse effects.

Storage

Store Plavix at room temperature preferably between 15 to 25 degrees C. Always keep it in a cool dark place that is not directly exposed to sources of heat or moisture and sunlight. Protect it from kids and pets.

Warning/Precautions

Discuss your past/current medical history in detail with your doctor before beginning treatment with any new medication. If you are using any herbal supplements or over the counter medication, including vitamin pills, then mention it to your doctor. You must consult your doctor before taking aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, ketoprofen, indomethacin, nabumetone, oxaprozin, or even other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs).

Pregnancy Info

Plavix is in the FDA Category.

If you are expecting a child or are planning to have a child in the near future, then consult your doctor before using Plavix to discuss any possible threats to the unborn baby.

If you are a nursing mother and breast feed your baby, then too, seek consultation before using Plavix as some drugs are excreted in the breast milk and may enter the baby.