Plavix, also known as clopidogrel bisulfate, belongs to a group of medications known as antiplatelets. Antiplatelets are medications that interfere with the ability of the blood to clot. According to the National Institutes of Health, Plavix is used to prevent formation of blood clots in patients suffering from recent heart attack and stroke, acute coronary syndrome and peripheral artery disease.
Heart Attack and Stroke
According to the National Institutes of Health, heart attack and stroke are caused by blood clots. Heart attack occurs when a blood clot occludes a blood vessel and prevents blood from returning to the heart, leading to the necrosis of heart muscles. A stroke is an interruption of blood supply to any part of the brain, usually caused by blood clots that block blood vessels. Plavix is used to prevent blood clots in patients who have suffered recent heart attack and stroke.
Acute Coronary Syndrome
According to the American Heart Association, acute coronary syndrome includes life threatening conditions that cause chest pain due to insufficient supply of blood to the heart muscles that is caused by coronary artery disease. The conditions include unstable angina and myocardial infarction. These conditions increase the risk of future blood clots, heart attack and stroke. Plavix is prescribed to prevent blood clots that may cause heart attack and stroke in patients with acute coronary syndrome.
Peripheral Artery Disease
According to the National Institutes of Health, Peripheral artery disease refers to poor circulation in the legs caused by atherosclerosis. Poor circulation in the legs increases the risk of developing blood clots that could lead to heart attack and stroke. Plavix is prescribed to patients with peripheral arterial disease so as to prevent blood clots that could lead to heart attack and stroke.
