Brand name: CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix)
Pronounced: PLA-vicks
Generic name: Clopidogrel bisulfate
Why is CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix) prescribed?

CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix) keeps blood platelets slippery and discourages formation of clots, thereby improving blood flow to your heart, brain, and body. The drug is prescribed to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and serious circulation problems in people with hardening of the arteries or unstable angina (dangerous chest pain), and in people who've already suffered a heart attack or stroke.
Most important fact about CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix) WITHOUT PRESCRIPTIONS

Because CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix) slows clotting, it will take longer than usual to stop bleeding. Be sure to report any unusual bleeding to your doctor immediately, and tell any doctor or dentist planning a procedure that you have been taking CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix). You should discontinue the drug 5 days before any kind of surgery.
How should you take CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix)?

CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix) can be taken with or without food.

If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.

Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.
CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix) side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue using CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix).

* Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, back pain, bronchitis, bruising and bleeding under the skin, chest pain, coughing, depression, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, dizziness, fatigue, fluid retention and swelling, flu symptoms, headache, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, indigestion, inflammation of the nasal passages, itching, joint pain, nausea, pain, purple discoloration of skin, rash, upper respiratorytract infection, urinary tract infection

Why should CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix) not be prescribed?

Do not take CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix) if you have a bleeding stomach ulcer or bleeding in the area around the brain. Also avoid CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix) if it gives you an allergic reaction.
Special warnings about CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix)

If you've ever had a stomach ulcer or bleeding in the digestive tract, make sure the doctor is aware of it; CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix) should be used with caution. The drug should also be used carefully if you suffer from problems inside the eyes, have bleeding problems due to severe liver disease, or expect to be at risk of bleeding from any other cause.

In extremely rare cases (about 4 in a million), a dangerous bleeding problem called thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura has been known to develop in patients taking CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix). Signs include fever and bleeding under the skin. Call your doctor immediately if you develop these symptoms.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix)

CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix) increases the clot-fighting effect of aspirin. The two drugs are often taken together, and combined treatment has lasted for up to one year.

If CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix) is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Ask your doctor before starting any new drug; and be doubly careful before combining CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix) with the following:

Aspirin
Fluvastatin (Lescol)
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Advil, Aleve, Motrin, and Naprosyn
Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)
Tolbutamide (Orinase)
Torsemide (Demadex)
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix) during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Use CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix) during pregnancy only if absolutely necessary. Do not breastfeed while taking CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix), since the drug may appear in breast milk.
Recommended dosage for CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix)

ADULTS
Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix), seek medical attention immediately.

* Potential symptoms of CLOPID (Clopidogrel, Plavix) overdose may include:
Difficulty breathing, exhaustion, stomach or intestinal bleeding, vomiting