Plavix, also known by the generic name clopidogrel, is a prescription drug used to reduce the incidence of heart attack and stroke. Plavix functions to prevent the formation of harmful blood clots that cause adverse cardiovascular events. The complications from Plavix are typically rare and mild, but should be brought to the attention of Plavix users. A physician should explain these and other complications to patients before they begin Plavix therapy.
Hemorrhage
Hemorrhage is the most commonly reported, dangerous complication of Plavix use. Drug safety information provided by Drugs.com reports that about 2 percent of Plavix users experience gastrointestinal bleeding, sometimes requiring hospitalization. Intracranial hemorrhaging is less common, occurring in less than 1 percent of patients on Plavix. Minor skin hemorrhaging and nose bleeding are more common, occurring in about 5 percent of patients.
Stomach Complications
According to FDA information supplied by Drugs.com, gastrointestinal discomfort occurs in about 27 percent of Plavix users. Diarrhea, dyspepsia, nausea and abdominal pain have also been reported by about 5 percent of patients using Plavix. Complications from ulcers are also relatively common, as Plavix users experience up to 12 times as many ulcers as patients using other similar drugs. Individuals using Plavix should seek immediate medical attention if they experience blood in their urine or stool or have black, tar-like stool with Plavix use.
Nervous System Side Effects
The Mayo Clinic reports that common nervous system and psychiatric side effects of Plavix include headache, dizziness, general feelings of discomfort as well as anxiety and insomnia. These complications are usually not medically serious and should go away with time as the body adjusts to Plavix use. A doctor should be consulted if such side effects persist or increase in intensity during treatment.
Cardiovascular Complications
Chest pain, edema and hypertension occur in about 5 to 10 percent of Plavix users. A low, yet significant percentage of Plavix users have reported heart palpitations, atrial fibrillation and heart failure. There have also been rare reports of vasculitis, hypotension and angioedema with Plavix use.
Allergic Reactions
According to Drugs.com, hypersensitivity or allergic reactions are reported by less than 1 percent of Plavix users. While these effects are rare, they can be very dangerous and should be reported to a health professional immediately. Patients should seek prompt medical attention if they experience any symptoms of anaphylaxis while using Plavix, including nausea, vomiting, racing heart rate, rash, fever or faintness.
