Clopidogrel

Clopidogrel is an anti platelet drug that is used to prevent blood clots from forming. It is prescribed to patients who have a tendency to form blood clots in the fast flowing arteries and heart or possibly those who have recently had a heart attack or stroke.

This drug may be suitable for those individuals who cannot, for one reason or another, take aspirin for its antiplatelet effects. Clopidogrel, taken regularly, reduces the tendency of platelets sticking together thinning the blood slightly helping to prevent unwanted blood clots. However, this can lead to heavy bleeding. Because of this reason you should report any unusual bleeding to your doctor immediately.

If you require dental work then you should inform your dentist you are taking this drug before the commencement of any treatment. The most common adverse effects with clopidogrel is associated with bleeding.

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Detailed Information

Quick Guide

• Antiplatelet drug with overdose danger – MEDIUM.
• Dependency is said to be – LOW.
• Prescription only drug – YES.
• Available as generic – NO. (generic drugs, short: generics) is a drug which is produced and distributed without patent protection.
• Alcohol Avoidance – YES.
• Excessive drinking of alcohol may irritate the stomach and increase the risk of bleeding.

Side Effects

You may if on this medication suffer one or more of these side effects, in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all, as it does not follow that being on this medication will cause unwanted side effects.

Common: Bruising, Nosebleeds, Diarrhoea, Abdominal pains.
Rare: Gastrointestinal bleeding, Ulcers, Blood in urine, Nausea, Vomiting, Headache, Dizziness, Rash, Itching, Sore throat.

The most common adverse effects with clopidogrel is associated with bleeding and bruising. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any blackened stools, any unusual bruising or bleeding, unexplained flu-like symptoms with a high temperature, or jaundice.

Because of the slight blood thinning effects of this medication it is possible to see a longer delay in healing when you cut yourself. If bleeding continues or you notice unexplained bleeding, contact your doctor.

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using this medication It does not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or chemist.

Prolonged Use

There are no special problems with long-term use.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

Clopidogrel can cause dizziness. You should be aware of how you will react to clopidogrel before driving, operating machinery or doing other jobs which could be regarded as dangerous if you were to become dizzy.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

The safety of this drug in pregnancy has not been established. The drug passes into the breast milk and may affect the baby. Discuss both these issues with your doctor.

Clopidogrel is classified as a Pregnancy Category B Medicine, by the US. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Category B… Animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women OR Animal studies have shown an adverse effect, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have failed to demonstrate a risk to the foetus in any trimester.

Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason.

Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary / alternative medication.

See full list of things you should tell your doctor about.»

Over 60’s & Children

There would be no special problems when taken by the elderly. Clopidogrel is not recommended for use by children.

Overdose

If for what ever reason you find you have unintentionally taken an extra dose it would be unlikely to give reason for concern. However, if you notice any unusual symptoms or you or someone you know has taken a large over dose you should notify your doctor immediately. Failing this go to your nearest accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Take the container with you. This will help the hospital staff identify what has been taken and work towards given the right kind of help without delay.

Other Medication Reactions

Clopidogrel: increased risk of bleeding when heparins
given with clopidogrel

The anticoagulant effects of drugs such as warfarin, heparins increase the risk of bleeding if taken with clopidogrel. The effects of aspirin and other non-steroidal drugs (NSAIDs) would have an increased effect on platelets if taken with clopidogrel. There is also an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding if clopidogrel is used with these drugs. There may be increased risk of bleeding when dipyridamole is given with clopidogrel.

Missed A Dose

Try to take clopidogrel at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses. If you do miss a dose take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Ideally you would have already checked with your doctor. Failing this ring the surgery or check next time you see your doctor.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

Do not stop taking this drug without first speaking with your doctor. Stopping could cause a recurrence of your condition.

Effect Of Medication (from one dose)

You would be likely to feel the effects of this medication within 1 hour. Clopidogrel has a lasting effect of 24 hours.

Surgery and Dental Work

If you are to undergo surgery or dental work you should discuss both with your doctor or dentist it is possible that clopidogrel may need to be stopped a week before-hand

Storage and Safety

• Keep medicine in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach and eye sight of children.
• Do not store medication above a temperature of 25°C.
• Never take more than the original dosage prescribed by your doctor.
• Never take medication that has past the expiry date shown on the box or container.
• Do not discard old or unwanted medication / drugs into your trash, sink or toilet.
• Return all unused or old medicines / drugs to your pharmacist.

If this medication has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or they feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.