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Is It Safe To Switch From Plavix To Aspirin For Carotid Stenosis?

Posted on Tue, 5 May 2015

Question: For several reasons I need to stop Rx with Plavix taken for a stroke following carotid stenosis 2 years ago. The PA says just stop it cold turkey and stay on aspirin . What do you think? YYYY@YYYY

Answered by Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (11 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
You can stop it anytime

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
stopping plavix won't cause any harm to you. Aspirin is less effective than plavix for carotid stenosis but it does offer protection. This means that you'll have no immediate consequence because you've stopped plavix but you'll have less protection in the the long term.
I hope this is clear enough. Please contact me again, if you have further questions on this subject.

Kind Regards!

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (2 hours later)

The question is whether the Plavix can be stopped cold or should the dosage be tapered. Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (50 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It can be stopped cold

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I already answered the question, but since I wasn't clear enough, I'll use your words this time. Yes, you plavix can be stopped cold. No tapering is required.
Kind Regards!

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (29 hours later)

"stopping Plavix will cause no harm" leaves unanswered how that stopping should occur. You have now provided the answer; thanks!

Answered by Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
You're welcome

Detailed Answer:
You're welcome, I'm always glad to help.

Kind Regards!

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar