Plavix

What is it?

An antiplatelet drug available as film-coated, pink tablets containing 75mg of clopidogrel, as hydrogen sulphate marked 75.Usedfor: to reduce the likelihood of further atherosclerotic events in patients with peripheral artery disease, those with a history of atherosclerotic disease ie having had ischaemic stroke (from 7th day until before 6 months has elapsed), heart attack (from a few days to under 35 days).

Dosage

Adults, 1 tablet each day - can be taken with or without food.

Special Care

Moderate liver disorder, kidney disease. Increased risk of bleeding and blood changes. Patient should be warned and blood tests performed if symptoms appear or condition suspected, or if Plavix is combined with drugs that may cause blood changes or bleeding.

Avoid Use

Children, pregnancy, breast- feeding, active internal bleeding eg from stomach ulcer or brain haemorrhage. A few days should elapse before starting treatment in event of heart attack, ischaemic stroke, unstable angina and certain other conditions.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Thrombolytics, aspirin, anticoagulants, NSAIDs, glycoprotein l lb/l l la inhibitors.

Known Side Effects

Gastrointestinal upset, bleeding, skin effects, disorders of blood, liver, nervous and biliary systems. In rare cases, thrombotic thrombocytopenia purpera (bleeding disorder caused by lack of blood platelets). Any adverse side effects should be reported to the Committee on the safety of Medicines (CSM).

Manufacturer

Sanofi/BMS.