Generic Plavix
Drug name: Plavix
Other names used: Active Ingredients: ClopidogrelTherapeutic actions: Plavix is an inhibitor of thrombocyte aggregation. The drug selectively inhibits binding of ADP with thrombocyte receptors thus inactivating thrombocyte aggregation. Clopidogrel irreversibly binds to thrombocytes and the restoration of thrombocyte function may be reached in 5-7 days after the cessation of the therapy. The drug also exhibits coronary dilating effects and prevents development of atherothrombosis.
Indications: The drug is used in prophylaxis of ischemic heart disease in patients with atherosclerosis:
- Condition after myocardial infraction, ischemic insult or prior diagnosed disease of the peripheral arteries
- In acute coronary syndrome with elevated ST interval in combination with acetylsalicylic acid
Contraindications and cautions: The drug should not be used in cases of:
- Severe liver failure
- Acute bleeding, peptic ulcer and cerebral bleeding
- Pregnancy
- Lactation period
- Young age prior to 18 years
- Hypersensitivity to any components of the preparation
The drug should be used with caution in:
- Liver or renal disease
- Trauma
- After surgery
- Bleeding predisposition
- Possible surgery in the near future
Adverse effects: There are possible side-effects associated with this medicine that can affect individuals in different ways. If a side effect is stated here, that does not necessarily mean the fact that all people using Clopidogrel will experience it or any other. The side-effects include:
- Haemopoietic system: gastrointestinal bleeding, hematoma, hematuria, conjunctival bleeding, neutropenia, severe thrombocytopenia
- Cardiovascular system: vasculitis, decreased arterial pressure
- Gastrointestinal tract: abdominal pain, dyspepsia, gastritis
- CNS and peripheral nervous system: headache, dizziness, paresthesia, confusion, hallucinations
- Dermatological reactions: skin rash, itching
- Locomotor system: arthralgia, arthritis
- Urogenital system: glomerulonephritis
- Allergic reactions: bronchospasm, angioneurotic swelling, anaphylactic reactions
- Other: purpura, hyperthermia, increased levels of creatinine
The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer.
For more information about any other possible risks associated with Plavix, please read the information provided with Clopidogrel or consult your doctor or pharmacist.Interactions: It is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist what medicines you are already taking, including those bought without a prescription and herbal medicines, before you start treatment with Plavix. Similarly, check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medication while taking this one, to ensure that the combination is safe. Especially mention to your doctor if you are using:
- Other antiplatelet agents
- NSAID's
- Diabetes treatment
- Anticoagulants
