1. Keeps Blood Clots From Sticking
There are many drugs on the market for treating victims of heart attacks. It can be quite confusing when speaking with your physician about the choices available. Plavix is one of a class of drugs called anti-platelet drugs that are more commonly referred to as blood thinners. These prescription drugs help inhibit the formation of blood clots in the arteries. The build-up of cholesterol and fat cells on the lining of the arteries promote conditions that lead to clot formation. Drugs like Plavix are important in the prevention of a recurrence.
2. Side Effects are Part of the Price
Almost every drug in the world, while doing its job, has side effects on the rest of the body. Plavix has a list of conditions that can be troublesome and inconvenient. Not everyone that uses the drug suffers side effects, but they can range from minor irritants to life-threatening episodes. Side effects of Plavix can include headaches or dizziness to gastrointestinal bleeding, diarrhea or constipation. With these in mind, talk with your doctor about other alternatives for your treatment.
3. Interacts Badly With Others Meds
All the drugs, vitamins and other supplements that we consume, even over-the-counter medicines, have the potential to react with the medications a doctor may prescribe you for your condition. Everyone is different and everyone reacts differently. Always check with your physician and pharmacist for possible interactions with the drugs you are already taking.
4. Dangers Lurking Around Every Corner
Take special care if you cut yourself or observe a bruise appearing on your body accompanied by a fever, fatigue and feelings of having the flu. You should notify your doctor immediately. Be alert to having Plavix prescribed for you if you are within a few days or a week of suffering a heart attack or stroke. If you are allergic to milk products or are lactose intolerant, you should be careful of Plavix, as it contains lactose as an ingredient. Finally, if you have a bleeding problem anywhere in your body, there are distinct hazards to taking a blood thinner like Plavix. Drugs are not hazard-free and you are ultimately responsible to ask questions and check out the dangers.
5. Ask the Hard Questions
Medical practitioners today are not always as careful as they should be and don't always tell you everything about a procedure or drug that they prescribe. For your own sake and health, make sure you ask them all the hard questions and become a participant in the decision-making that concerns your care. Make sure you understand the hazards and risks of a given procedure or drug and what the alternatives are.
