Why is Plavix prescribed?

Clopidogrel (Plavix) is used to reduce the risk of stroke or heart attack. Plavix works by preventing excessive blood clotting.

Plavix is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more Plavix information.

How should Plavix be used?

Clopidogrel (Plavix) comes as a tablet to take by mouth. Plavix usually is taken once a day. Follow the Plavix directions on your Plavix prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Clopidogrel (Plavix) exactly as directed. Do not take more or less Plavix or take Plavix more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Continue to take Clopidogrel (Plavix) even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Clopidogrel (Plavix) without talking to your doctor.

What special Plavix precautions should I follow?

Before taking Clopidogrel (Plavix),

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Clopidogrel (Plavix) or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as warfarin (Coumadin); aspirin; fluvastatin (Lescol); ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin); medications for arthritis, pain, or headaches; naproxen (Naprosyn); phenytoin (Dilantin); tamoxifen (Nolvadex); ticlopidine (Ticlid); tolbutamide (Orinase); torsemide (Demadex); and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver or kidney disease; any stomach problems, ulcers; any other gastrointestinal disease; or any bleeding or blood disorders.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking Clopidogrel (Plavix), call your doctor.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking Clopidogrel (Plavix).

What should I do if I forget a Plavix dose?

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

What side effects can Plavix cause?

Although side effects from Clopidogrel (Plavix) are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these Plavix symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• upset stomach
• fatigue, muscle aches (flu-like symptoms)
• stomach pain
• headache
• diarrhea
• constipation
• rash or purple areas on skin

If you experience any of the following Plavix symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• chest pain
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• bloody vomit
• dark urine
• bloody diarrhea or black, tarry stools
• fever
• confusion or coma
• yellowness of the skin or eyes
• blood in the urine

What storage conditions are needed for Plavix?

Keep Plavix in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store Plavix at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any Plavix that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your Plavix.

In case of Plavix emergency/overdose

In case of Plavix overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other Plavix information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your response to Clopidogrel (Plavix).

Clopidogrel (Plavix) prevents blood from clotting so it may take longer than usual for you to stop bleeding if you are cut or injured. Avoid activities that have a high risk of causing injury. Call your doctor if bleeding is unusual.

Do not let anyone else take your Plavix. Ask your pharmacist any Plavix questions you have about refilling your Plavix prescription.