Yashoda Hospitals > Medicine FAQS > Plavix

Plavix: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Plavix?

Plavix is an antiplatelet medicine. It is sold under the generic name, Clopidogrel. Clopidogrel is the active ingredient of the drug. It prevents platelets from connecting to form clots. While clots are necessary to stop bleeding, reckless clot formation in the body can block blood vessels. Ultimately, it results in end-organ damage. Therefore, Plavix is used in susceptible people to stop these clots from forming.

What are the uses of Plavix?

Plavix is used to treat conditions that are associated with excessive clot formation. It is used in patients who have had a heart attack or stroke to prevent clot formation. It is also used in patients with peripheral vascular diseases and circulatory problems because they are at a higher risk of excessive blood clotting. Plavix is also used with aspirin in patients with coronary stents and chest pain to prevent future complications.

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    What are the side effects of Plavix?

    Since Plavix inhibits blood clotting, even a minor injury can lead to severe and life-threatening bleeding. Underdosing on the medicine can increase the risks of getting a heart attack or a stroke. Similarly, overdosing can lead to blood in urine, stool, nosebleeds, and unidentifiable bruises. It might also cause clot formation throughout the body, a side effect known as TTP. If you are experiencing any stressful symptoms while taking Plavix, get in touch with our medical experts.

    What is Plavix

    Uses of Plavix

    Side effects of Plavix

    References

    1. Plavix (clopidogrel): Side effects, uses, dosage, and more (medicalnewstoday.com)
    2. Plavix Uses, Dosage & Side Effects – Drugs.com
    3. Plavix Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing – WebMD
    4. Are Anticoagulants Better than Antiplatelet Agents for Treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke? – Cochrane for Clinicians – American Family Physician (aafp.org)
    5. Aspirin vs. Plavix (clopidogrel) Differences, Side Effects (Bleeding Risks), Benefits (medicinenet.com)
    6. Aspirin-clopidogrel no better than aspirin alone for patients with lacunar stroke | National Institutes of Health (NIH)

    Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Plavix

    Yes. It is a severe side effect of Plavix. Overdosed Plavix can cause bleeding in stools, urine, and nose bleeding. It is advisable to contact your medical practitioner as soon as you witness any blood in your stools or urine or any unidentifiable bruising anywhere on the body.

    Plavix is an antiplatelet medicine. Both anticoagulants and antiplatelets work to reduce clot formations in the body. However, they have different mechanisms of action. While antiplatelets like Plavix prevent platelets from sticking together, anticoagulants work on the chemicals in the blood to prevent clot formation. Antiplatelets provide more long-term benefits.

    It is generally not advisable to take Lipitor and Plavix together. Taking the two medicines together can reduce the effectiveness of both medicines. Moreover, such patients are more prone to facing adverse side effects of Plavix. Consult our medical experts and get more information about your medicines.

    No. Plavix is not a beta-blocker. Beta-blocker drugs such as metoprolol act on beta-adrenergic receptors in the body. On the other hand, Plavix acts on the receptors on the platelet, such as P2Y12 receptors. Plavix blocks these receptors and prevents platelet aggregation from forming clots.

    Drugs that inhibit clot formation are known as blood thinners. Both antiplatelet medicines and anticoagulants fall under this category. Plavix is an antiplatelet medicine that acts on platelets and inhibits their aggregation. In this way, Plavix acts as a blood thinner. To get consultations about your drugs, consult our experts now.

    Usually, Plavix does not cause any changes in blood pressure. However, syncope and fainting due to low blood pressure can be severe side effects of Plavix. A low blood pressure, in this case, can indicate severe internal bleeding in the patient. This condition needs immediate medical attention to prevent morbidity and mortality.

    Experiencing shortness of breath is not among the commonly seen side effects of Plavix. However, it can indicate an underlying serious problem, such as severe internal bleeding. It might require immediate medical attention. If you take Plavix, you might consider getting expert advice on dosages and precautions from our medical team.

    Plavix has its own set of side effects and medical uses. Taking the drug for longer periods does not impact the overall life span of the individual. It is therefore advisable to exercise proper precautions while taking the medication. Adherence to the doses is critical.

    A TIA can be called a “mini-stroke” and can be caused due to blood clots formation. A combination of aspirin and Plavix is prescribed to patients who have experienced TIA. The course is continued for 21 to 30 days. These medicines reduce the risk of facing any other strokes in the future.

    Some studies indicate that taking Aspirin alone has no more advantages than taken alone. However, other studies suggest that taking the medicines can increase bleeding. The prescription of aspirin and Plavix is made together to reduce stroke risks. Therefore, it is not advisable to choose your drugs without the advice of a physician.