Plavix is the primary anticoagulant in the world. What it does is essentially inhibit thrombocytes in such a way that they don’t stick together, preventing blood clots from forming. This, in turn, reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes. It can often be taken as a precautionary measure, on account of its generally mild side effects.
It can also be used with Aspirin for an increased anti-stroke action because these two products are very compatible. Thanks to its safeness and benefits, it remains one of the most prominent and popular medicines when it comes to treating cardiovascular diseases and conditions.
Plavix is similar to Aspirin in its general cardiovascular action, but there are many differences. Plavix, or Clopidogrel, isn’t an anti-inflammatory agent like Aspirin. Instead, it directly inhibits the structure of platelets, making them less cohesive and unable to stick to one another.
Background
Plavix was introduced in 1997, and very soon became one of the leading drugs for fighting strokes and heart attacks. It was a joint effort between Sanofi and Bristol-Myers, and these two companies still produce the medicine to this date. There are other brands of this chemical, but Plavix is the mainstream one.
It’s actually one of the earlier antiplatelet solutions, besides Aspirin, which is technically over 100 years old. The bottom line is that, if Aspirin isn’t effective, can’t be taken, or is otherwise an undesirable option, Plavix can absolutely be taken in its stead, and it’s even better in some aspects.
Advantages of Plavix
Its biggest advantage is the efficiency with which it prevents clots from forming. In terms of its cardiovascular response, Plavix has even been shown superior to Aspirin, in particular, when it comes to preventing clots, hemorrhage, and other common problems. This, however, can vary from person to person.
The other big benefit is the lack of serious side effects. The usual selection can include nausea, headache, stomach pain, and dizziness. There are also more serious side effects, but they are relatively rare. It’s also possible to have an allergic reaction to Plavix, in which case Aspirin can be a perfect substitute.
The other big upside is the variety of Clopidogrel options on the market. Besides the regular version, Plavix, it’s also possible to find a variety of much cheaper generic options, sold just under the name Clopidogrel. Alternative varieties, like Iscover, also exist.
Disadvantages
Besides the side effects, which are typically mild compared to some of the other solutions in this field, Plavix has several key disadvantages.
While Aspirin and Plavix generally work well together, taking them both can lead to a variety of uncomfortable side effects. Plavix can occasionally clash with various blood thinners, such as Aspirin. As a result, it can increase the risks of bleeding, although taking these together is overall a good idea.
The price can also be a big downside for many people. While Aspirin is a very affordable drug, whose per-tablet cost is less than $1, the same amount of Plavix can cost up to $10. Fortunately, generic versions exist, which makes this product more affordable, but it’s still a big disadvantage.
Activity
Plavix works by inhibiting a certain type of protein found on the surface of platelets. If a person is wounded (or during inflammations), these proteins force the thrombocytes to stick together. It has important healing properties because without this function a body can’t heal the injuries properly.
Plavix turns some of these off. It doesn’t turn all of them off because it would make the body extremely vulnerable to outside threats. It decreases their efficiency just enough to prevent unnecessary clogging. This, in turn, reduces the chance of strokes and heart attacks.
Due to these properties, it’s usually prescribed to people who are actively at risk of a stroke/heart attack. If you had one before or if you have all the necessary requirements for one, taking Plavix is an absolutely reasonable step. Taking it just to be safe is not advised, though. Moreover, it is a prescription drug.
Taking Plavix
Plavix is usually taken every day. The average norm in one sitting is 75mg, taken orally as a tablet. The meals are irrelevant, but you do need to take it largely at the same time every day. Exactly how long your treatment course will last is incredibly fickle. It can be a few weeks or several years.
You can’t really cure strokes or heart attacks, certain people simply are predisposed to them, but Plavix helps you reduce the risk. If you take it for several years, you can significantly reduce said risk. Alternatively, it may be absolutely necessary for your survival, which is uncomfortable but ultimately better than suffering another stroke.
HOW TO UTILIZE THIS DATA
This is an overview and does NOT contain every possible detail about this product. This data does not guarantee that this product is secure, efficient, or suitable for your needs. This information is not personalized medical guidance and does not replace the counsel of your healthcare specialist. Always consult your healthcare professional for comprehensive information about this product and your unique health requirements.