What are the uses?

Plavix, or clopidogrel bisulfate, is a medication used to treat Strokes (prevention; anticoagulation)

When Will My Medication Start to Work?

A peak plasma level for the drug usually occurs about an hour after ingestion.

Any Other Important Information?

Plavix helps to prevents stokes by reducing coagulations through inhibitions of platelet aggregation. This is very usueful for individuals who have suffered from myocardial infarctions, stroke, and vascular death or other arterial diseases.

According to the CAPRIE (clopidogrel vs. Aspirin in Patients at Risk of Ischemic Events) study, Plavix did show a lower incidence of outcome events (ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction, and other vascular deaths) when compared to aspirin. However aspirin is more effective than a placebo in reducing these same cardiovascular events.

Like other anti-coagulation drugs, it takes longer for an individual to stop bleeding. Therefore any incidences in which the person is at a high risk for injury should avoided.

What Are the Side Effects?

Remember that only some people will experience side effects--and that no one experiences side effects in exactly the same way. If you experience any side effects, contact your doctor or clinician right away and continue taking your medication. The following list may not contain all of the side effects associated with this medication:

Most Common Side Effects

• abdominal pain
• dyspepsia
• gastritis
• constipation
• rash
• itching
• bruising
• diarrhea

Infrequent Side Effects

• chest pain
• nose bleeds

Rare Side Effects

• gastrointestinal bleeding
• gastric ulcers

The adverse effects from use of Plavix is similar to that of aspirin.

Are There Drug Interactions?

Remember, always follow your physician's recommendations on how to take your medication. Even if you are taking one of the following substances, continue taking your medication as prescribed and consult your physician. Also, if you are taking any herbal remedies, vitamins, and/or over-the-counter medications, be sure to tell your physician.

Plavix may interfere with the metabolism of :

• phenytoin
• tamoxifen
• tolbutamide
• coumadin (warfarin)
• torsemide
• fluvastatin
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents

The effects of drug interactions for Plavix is similar to that of aspirin, which are minor to none.