Plavix (clopidogrel) is a widely-used antiplatelet drug, used to help prevent heart attack, stroke, blood clots, and other heart or blood circulation issues in at-risk patients or following certain medical procedures.

The medication inhibits platelets in the blood from clumping together and forming a blood clot. It also promotes easy, free-flowing blood in the body. Patients taking Plavix are at increased risk of bleeding, however, and should avoid activities---such as contact sports---in which bruising or bleeding are likely.

Plavix is used:

• After a heart attack or stroke
• Following certain medical procedures, such as placement of a stent
• In patients with coronary artery disease
• In patients with peripheral artery disease
• To treat angina
• In other scenarios to prevent blood clots/improve blood flow

And Plavix can be taken:

• On its own
• Along with aspirin
• Instead of aspirin when aspirin can't be taken

Patients should always speak with a doctor before mixing certain medications with Plavix, particularly:

• Medications that inhibit the CYP2C19 enzyme, such as omeprazole
• Other medications that influence bleeding, such as warfarin
• NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen
• SSRIs or SNRIs, such as sertaline or duloxetine
• The anti-diabetic medication repaglinide

Plavix can be used in all ages, though very young children, very elderly patients, and those with moderate to severe kidney impairment may need modified doses. Effects on unborn or nursing infants are unclear.

Treatment Overview

The conditions Plavix treats are complicated and vary by individual; likewise treatment should be individualized. Patients should only take Plavix if instructed by a doctor, as there are many factors that suggest treatment is suitable or not that can only be measured with medical equipment.

A very rough treatment guideline for most scenarios:

• The majority of patients take 75 mg once per day.
• Depending on the condition, some patients will take a "loading dose" of 300 mg on the first day.
• Other conditions, other medications, and other personal variables like age and weight can all influence dosage and dosage frequency.
• Treatment spans from a few weeks to several years, again depending on the condition and patient response.
• Missed doses should be skipped entirely; be careful to avoid taking too much of this medication.

It takes a few days for 75 mg doses to start producing solid effects; this happens much quicker, often on day one, when a 300 mg loading dose is taken.

It is not unusual for a physician to request a genetic test prior to prescribing Plavix; some individuals have genetic factors that decrease its effectiveness. Alternative products will be used instead.

Use of this or any other blood thinner may need to be temporarily suspended prior to surgery or dental work. Consult a physician before undergoing any surgical or dental procedures.

In Closing

Plavix is a widely-used and very well studied medication; it has proven benefit in retaining independence, extending duration of life, and maintaining quality of life, in both clinical trials and real-world use.

This medication can prevent recurrence of heart attack and stroke; reduce symptoms of peripheral artery disease, unstable angina, and other clot-related disorders; and promote healthy recovery in recipients of cardiac stents, balloon angioplasties, and certain other medical procedures.

In other words, Plavix is a highly beneficial medication and quite safe when used as directed. It is one of the most widely-used and best-selling medications in the world.