Ticlid

What is it?

An antiplatelet drug available as film-coated, white tablets containing 250mg of ticlopidine hydrochloride.

Medical Uses

Reduction of stroke in patients who have already had a stroke, transient ischaemic attack or other similar incident. Reduction of serious ischaemic accidents (especially of coronary arteries) in patients with certain arterial disease. In combination with aspirin to prevent blocking of stent after surgery for intracoronary stenting.

Dosage

Treatment to be started under direct supervision of experienced clinician in hospital; adults, usually 1 tablet twice each day taken with meals.

Special Care

Pregnancy, bresstfeeding, impaired kidney function; impaired liver function - treatment must be stopped if jaundice or hepatitis arise. Patients must report any symptoms of infection. Blood counts and platelet counts must be performed before treatment starts and then at fortnightly intervals for first 3 months.

Avoid Use

Children, prolonged bleeding, bleeding disorders, low blood counts of various blood components (thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis, leucopenia), acute stroke with haemorrhage, inherited tendency for bleeding, active stomach ulcer.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

NSAIDs, digoxin, cyclosporin, anticoagulants, phenytoin, theophylline, heparin, salicylates, antiplatelets.

Known Side Effects

Gastrointestinal upset, bleeding disorders, thrombocytopenia (low level of blood platelets), agranuloeytosis (low levels of granulocytes- white blood cells), rashes. In rare cases, cholestatic jaundice, heapatitis, disturbed immunological effects.