Plavix (clopidogrel) is a medication used to prevent blood clots from forming in the heart or brain. A myocardial infarction (heart attack) and stroke can result if blood clots form in these regions. According to MedlinePlus, Plavix is an antiplatelet drug, which means it interferes with blood clotting by inhibiting the activity of platelets (types of blood cells essential for blood clotting). Typically, you will take 75mg of Plavix daily, says the National Library of Medicine.
Common Side Effects
According to MedlinePlus, Plavix can cause such common side effects as nausea, diarrhea, fatigue and dizziness. Plavix can also cause epistaxis (nosebleeds), stomach pain and headaches. In a study of 9,599 patients taking Plavix, the National Library of Medicine says that 7.6 percent developed headaches, 6.2 percent experienced dizziness, 6.5 percent developed abdominal pains, 5.2 percent developed indigestion, 4.5 percent had diarrhea, 3.4 percent experienced nausea and 2.9 percent developed nosebleeds. These side effects are not life-threatening, but inform your doctor when they remain for two to three days.
Serious Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, Plavix can cause bloody or black stools, hemoptysis (coughing up blood), chest pain and a sudden headache with numbness or tingling of one side of the body. Melena (black stools) and bloody stools are typically indicative of stomach or intestinal bleeding. Chest pain can be a harbinger for a heart attack while, a sudden headache with paresthesias (numbness or tingling) can be a sign of a stroke. Plavix can also cause easy bleeding or bruising, weakness, and decreased or increased urination. The National Library of Medicine says that Plavix can cause a potentially fatal condition called thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). This is a condition characterized by low platelet counts, kidney problems, neurological problems and a fever. Call your doctor or go to the emergency room when Plavix causes these side effects.
Additional Concerns
Avoid Plavix if you are allergic to clopidogrel. Trouble breathing, hives, and swelling of your lips, throat, face and tongue can result.
Drugs.com recommends not to take Plavix if you have liver or kidney disease, stomach ulcers, stroke or bleeding disorders. Plavix can exacerbate any of these conditions.
It is unclear whether Plavix can contaminate human milk or harm your baby during pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding or pregnant.
Do not take Plavix with aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen and naproxen. Plavix and these drugs can lead to the aforementioned effects.
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