Is Plavix Suitable For Patient Having Heart Problems?

Posted on Mon, 12 May 2014

Question: Hello Doctor, Is the medication "Plavix" as it is known in the UK (Clopidogrel) suitable for a patient who may have a hardening of the arteries (but no history of thrombosis) but has never had a heart attack, stroke or peripheral arterial disease or experienced unstable angina? If so what are the possible effects and with what probability in an elderly person?

Answered by Dr. Eris Ranxha (31 minutes later)

Brief Answer: It is safe Detailed Answer: Dear Thank you for sharing with us your query Plavix is recommended in all patients with risk for thrombosis even if they haven't suffered attacks I recommend my patients to start it, use it after meals (launch) It increases the risk for gastric ulcers and bleeding but if it is used carefully it isn't risky Hope I had answered your questions Wish you all the best Regards Dr Eris Ranxha Neurologist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Eris Ranxha (23 hours later)

Dear Dr Ranxha, Thank you for your reply. I have just read the "Plavix medical information for the patient again" and it does state two conditions for the prescription. the patient should have both 1) Atherothrombosis and 2) a) Had a previous heart attack or b) stroke or c) peripheral heart disease or d) unstable angina (myo cardial infarction) My medical concern is for the prescription to a person who does not have thrombosis (a medical examination revealing "extensive atheroma with several sites of minor stenosis.... no thrombosis" ) or any of the other conditions (a-d) stated to be necessary for prescription. Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Eris Ranxha (19 minutes later)

Brief Answer: It is safe Detailed Answer: Dear I understand your concern. You should know that aspirin and clopidogrel are described to prevent ischemic attacks or their recurrents; that's why your doctor prescribed it, to prevent stroke as it is effective in antiaggregation. This prevent the full stenosis or occlusion. The patient needs to take clopidogrel. It is safe, use it after lunch and the patient will be fine. Best regards Dr Eris Ranxha

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Eris Ranxha (21 minutes later)

Okay thanks doctor

Answered by Dr. Eris Ranxha (34 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Thank you Detailed Answer: Stay healthy Regards Dr Eris

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Eris Ranxha (2 hours later)

Thanks for the advice and information Dr Eris

Answered by Dr. Eris Ranxha (9 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Welcome... Detailed Answer: Please close this discussion if you have no more questions and review. Regards Dr Eris

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad