Clopidogrel tablets
What do clopidogrel tablets do?
CLOPIDOGREL (Plavix(R)) helps to prevent blood clots. It reduces the chance of having a heart attack or a stroke in people who have already had a heart attack or a stroke. Clopidogrel can also decrease the chance of a heart attack or stroke in certain groups of people at high risk for these events.
What should my health care professional know before I take clopidogrel?
They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:
• bleeding disorder or hemophilia
• liver disease
• recent surgery or trauma
• stomach or intestinal ulcers
• an unusual or allergic reaction to clopidogrel, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take clopidogrel tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What other medicines can interact with clopidogrel?
• aspirin
• fluvastatin
• blood thinners such as warfarin
• antiinflammatory drugs such as NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen)
• phenytoin
• tamoxifen
• ticlopidine
• tolbutamide
• torsemide
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your physician or health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking clopidogrel?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
More common:
• red or purple spots on the skin
Rare or less common:
• black, tarry stools
• blood from vomiting
• blood in urine or stools
• nosebleed
• skin rash or itching (hives)
• stomach pain
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusually heavy menstrual bleeding
• sudden weakness
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• diarrhea
• indigestion (heartburn)
• mild stomach upset