Plavix Side Effects

Plavix or Clopidogrel may cause some unwanted side effects. Most of the side effects are common and usually disappear after the regular usage of the medication. Some of the common side effects associated with the drug include:

• Chest pain
• Fever
• Collection of blood under the skin
• Itching or redness
• Anxiety
• Low blood pressure
• Numbness

Some of the serious side effects are also associated with Clopidogrel. Patients experiencing any of the given serious side effects must immediately consult the doctor.

• Unexpected bleeding or bleeding that lasts a long time
• Blood in their urine (pink, red or brown urine)
• Red or black stools (looks like tar)
• Bruises that happen without a known cause or get larger
• Cough up blood or blood clots
• Vomit blood or their vomit looks like coffee grounds

Patients must keep in mind that while taking Plavix they may bruise and bleed more easily.

Plavix Interactions

In clinical studies it has been determined that Plavix along with certain drugs may cause serious medical problems. The patients are advised not to take Clopidogrel along with proton pump inhibitors and NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug). Following medications are known to reduce the effect of Plavix:

• Proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole and esomeprazole
• Non-steroidal and anti-inflammatory drugs like naproxen, ibuprofen and diclofenac
• Medicines that break down blood clots like alteplase and streptokinase
• Aspirin
• Heparin
• Venlafaxine

Patients must make sure that the doctor knows about all prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements that are being administered by them.

Warnings Use of Plavix

There are few vital facts associated with Clopidogrel which the patients must be aware of while administering this drug.

• Patients should avoid Plavix if they have a history of bleeding problem or are suffering from any illness, like stomach or duodenal ulcer that causes bleeding.
• Pregnant women must take Clopidogrel only after consulting the doctor. The effects of Plavix in not known on an unborn baby.
• Those who are allergic to clopidogrel or any of the ingredients in Plavix should avoid the drug.
• One should avoid this drug if one has to undergo any surgery or dental surgery.
• Patients with weak liver functioning should also avoid Plavix.