CLOPIDOGREL
08 Jul 2019
Generic Name : CLOPIDOGREL
ABSTRACT –
Clopidogrel is a medication drug that is used to lower the risks of strokes, angina or severe heart attacks, especially after a heart bypass surgery. It is also used to avoid the risk of circulatory problems as well. It is classified as a platelet aggression inhibitor.
DOSAGE –
- Clopidogrel is to be taken as directed by the doctors. Dosage varies depending on the condition.
- In certain cases, this drug is taken in combination with aspirin. Consult a doctor regarding the amount of aspirin required to be taken.
- Medication use is not to be stopped even in case of bleeding, unless recommended by the doctor.
- General Adult Dosage available: Oral tablet – 75mg, 300mg
SIDE EFFECTS –
- Chest pain
- Easy bleeding, collection of blood under skin
- Dark bruises
- Itching or pain
- Red/purple spots of varying sizes
RARE SIDE EFFECTS:
- Discolored stools
- Peeling of skin
- Bloody urine
- Fever
- Chills
- Sore throat
- Ulcers in the mouth
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Sudden weakness
DRUG INTERACTIONS –
- Anisindione
- Ardeparin
- Betrixaban
- Cangrelor
- Dalteparin
- Dicumarol
- Edoxaban
- Esomeprazole
- Fluconazole
- Ibrutinib
- Loperamide
- Rivaroxaban
- Warfarin
MODERATE DRUG INTERACTIONS –
- Amiodarone
- Aspirin
- Bromfenac
- Cilostazol
- Clarithromycin
- Diclofenac
- Diflunisal
- Efavirenz
- Escitalopram
- Etodolac
- Fenoprofen
- Ibuprofen
- Ketoconazole
- Naproxen
- Pantoprazole
PRECAUTIONS –
- Provide the doctor with detailed and accurate medical history prior to drug prescription. Notify especially in case of a history of ulcers within the stomach or a bleeding disorder.
- Do not consume this drug in case you are suffering from an internal bleeding within the brain or the stomach; or in case of any active bleeding.
- A blood test needs to be conducted before making sure that Clopidogrel is compatible with the patient’s genetic make-up, as it is less effective for some patients.
- Do not take this medicine in the last week of pregnancy; it may cause bleeding for the mother.
- Do not nurse while on drug course, as this drug may transfer through breast milk.
- In case of an approaching surgery / dental procedure, notify the surgeon of the consumption of Clopidogrel beforehand.
- Avoid alcohol while on drug course as it may increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
WARNINGS –
- This drug can cause easy bleeding. In case of sudden active bleeding in the patient that may occur unstoppably, get in touch with an emergency health service immediately.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- In case of overdose that may cause excessive bleeding, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.