Ticlopidine or Ticlid, and clopidogrel, or Plavix, belong to a family of drugs called antiplatelet agents. These "super asprin" drugs are used to decrease blood clotting and effectively prevent strokes and heart attacks in at-risk populations. In individuals who have already had one myocardial infarction, antiplatelet medication reduces the risk of a second attack by as much as 35 percent.
Classification
Ticlopidine and clopidogrel are both thienopyridines, or antiplatelet drugs, that work by blocking ADP orchestrated platelet aggregation. Put more simply, ticlopidine and clopidogrel prevent clot formation by keeping platelets from clumping together. Asprin is another type of antiplatelet drug, but diminishes the risk of clot formation by a different mechanism, which is not tolerated by some individuals.
Uses
Ticlopidine is used to prevent strokes in individuals intolerant of asprin or in combination with asprin to reduce the risk of clot formation associated with stents. Other uses for ticlopidine include treatment of sickle cell disease and clots in the lower extremities. Clopidogrel is used to diminish the chance of stroke and myocardial infarction or heart attack in at-risk patients. It may also be used in some circumstances to prevent clots.
Side Effects
Side effects of ticlopidine use include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach ache, headaches, itchy skin, gas and decreased appetite. More serious side effects include light colored stools, abnormal bleeding, any indication of infection and rashes. The side effects of clopidogrel use are similar, but may also include lethargy, dizziness and nosebleeds. More serious side effects of clopidogrel use are extensive, and include but are not limited to bloody vomit and stools, confusion, shortness of breath, difficulty speaking and black or tarry stools.
Precautions
Because ticlopidine and clopidogrel are both antiplatelet drugs, you may bleed more profusely and for a longer period of time upon injury. Antiplatelet drugs interfere with clotting, which is a natural part of the healing process. Consequently, you should avoid any activities that put you at high risk for injury. Call 911 immediately if you notice abnormal or profuse bleeding and bruising.
