DISCLAIMER: iGuard is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. iGuard cannot and does not take into consideration every possible interaction or account for individual responses to medicine. Different individuals may respond to medication in different ways. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for any given patient. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have before making any changes to your treatment. The use of the iGuard site and its content is at your own risk. The iGuard site and the information contained in it is intended for users in the United States and information in other countries may be different.
Global Patient Feedback for Plavix (Clopidogrel) ( Post a comment )
Question/Comment:
I have been taking Plavix along with a baby aspirin for six years. I also take Lipitor and Avapro. I used to bleed profusely or bruise severely if injured. This no longer is the case. Is it possible that the Plavix is no longer working or has my body just acclimated to the drug?
69 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2010-03-25 19:58:21
iGuard Answer/Reply:
It is possible that you have acclimated to the drug regimen. Sometimes bruising is a result of a vitamin deficiency, and perhaps you are no longer deficient. If you are still concerned about this, you may want to talk about it more with your doctor who has your complete medical history and can determine an explanation based on your specific medical history.
Posted: 2010-04-11 14:49:51
Question/Comment:
I recently stopped Plavix due to uncontrolled bleeding and excessive bruising. My Doctor has urged me to continue but on an abreviated schedule. Only twice a week instead of daily. So far so good.
59 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2010-03-24 23:32:13
Question/Comment:
Recently, against my doctors wishes, my healthcare provider stopped providing me Plavix.
I contacted Bristol-Myers Squibb, 800-736-0003, and am now receiving Plavix for free.
A short questionair, along with your doctor prescription and signature is all that is required.
67 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2010-03-20 19:23:45
Question/Comment:
I had 3 major arteries stented in 2007. I'm afraid to back off on the Plavix. Everything I bump into causes bruising. I also have such debilitating foot and leg pain that I can barely walk. I'm afraid to stop the Plavix. Have I been on it long enough or will my arteries begin to clot if I stop taking it.
77 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2010-02-15 14:14:52
iGuard Answer/Reply:
Speak with your doctor, as you should never stop any medication without checking with your doctor. The side effects could be from the Plavix, but your doctor may want to do bloodwork to make sure nothing else is going on. If the side effects are so debilitating, your doctor needs to evaluate your therapy. It depends on your bloodwork and history if you have been on it for an adequate amount of time.
Posted: 2010-02-17 22:04:25
Question/Comment:
Iam glad I stay in SCOTLAND where over 60 year old women and 65 year old men get free precriptions for all medications.Reading these enquiries make me proud of old britain
70 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2010-02-03 14:48:42
Question/Comment:
my husband is 61years old he had 2 strokes inthe past month they give him plavix in hospital we have no insurance no job he can not work he can not walk without falling who can help him get plavix?i am so afraid he will jhave another stroke he has no medication please let me know who can help.
56 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-11-23 23:09:46
iGuard Answer/Reply:
https://www.pparx.org/ is a website with information on different ways to apply for and receive prescription assistance for many different medicines. You can also contact your state's health department to see if there are any programs available in your area to help you and your husband get the medical care and medicines you need.
Posted: 2009-11-25 22:41:03
Member Answer/Reply:
Check with the Department of Human Services in your city/state to see if he can qualify for some form of Medicaid. Each state is different. He may also be able to qualify for disability benefits through Social Security. Call your local Social Security Office or go to the Social Security web site on-line. There is a questionaire you can complete which will let you know what kind of benefit(s) he may qualify for.
61 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2010-01-28 17:52:50
Member Answer/Reply:
Contact Bristol Meyers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation at 1-800-736-0003 and apply for assistance or even free Plavix 75MG Tablets.
62 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2010-01-29 12:36:19
Member Answer/Reply:
I had the same problem with not having insurance and I went to my heart doctor, they filled out a form for me signed it and I completed the form and mailed it to Bristol-Myers (makers of Plavix) and now they send me a 90 day supply every 90 days at no cost.
46 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2010-03-11 23:39:43
Question/Comment:
My doctor has switched from plavix to zetia as the plavix was causing muscle weakness and leg pain. I have been off it for about two months now, and cholesterol level at last blood test with the zetia is 187.
64 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-11-18 23:00:44
Member Answer/Reply:
Zetia and Plavix are two totally different types of drugs for different functions. Are you sure he didn't switch you from Lipitor to Zetia? Plavix is a thinner type med that stops the blood cells from sticking to each other and clotting.
49 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2010-01-22 11:12:45
Question/Comment:
There are generic drugs of Plavix in market. How can you tell whether a generic drug is as effective as the original? If I take a statin to control my cholesterol level, I can check my cholesterol level regularly. What should I check in order to see the effect of a generic drug of Plavix vs Plavix itself?
53 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-10-09 12:07:23
iGuard Answer/Reply:
At this time there is not a generic for Plavix available in the U.S. market. When a generic is approved by the FDA, the generic manufacturer is responsible for performing the tests to prove that the generic product contains the same amount of active ingredient as the brand name product.
Posted: 2009-10-20 01:15:02
Member Answer/Reply:
I am in New Zealand and Pharmacists dispense a generic version of clopidogrel. I was on it unknowingly for 7 months and had many problems with chest pain, palputations, muscular weakness, breathless, lethargy to name a few symptoms. I would spend a few days in Hospital and 'get better' only to slowly go downhill in 7 - 10 days and I would be back in hospital. On the 16th admission to hospital in 6 months I decided to question the pharmacist about the drugs I was taking at home and the drugs being administered in the hospital. Lo, one of my drugs was different! it was the generic clopidogrel. I now pay full price for Plavix and I have stayed out of hospital for 3 months to date. Doctors told me that I had a psychological problem, all in the mind, the chest pains were skeletal / muscular, I would get used to the side effects! I trusted them, they were professionals! Yeah Right.. Time to fight back and question everything. It has worked for me.
61 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-11-23 03:12:00
Question/Comment:
age 71 female Where can I get free Plavix,, I have just gone on plavix, I had a free sample for 14 pills, I now must use health insurance ,have not met my dedectable, , My pharmacist will fill my order by 1/2 and the premium would be $87.00 for 15 pills. I understand a presc. is 200.00 ? CAN YOU HELP ME?
72 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-09-18 09:39:31
Member Answer/Reply:
CALL BRISTOL MYERS SQUIBB @ 800736 0003, IF YOU ARE LOW INCOME AND OVER 65 THEY WILL HELP
73 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-09-19 11:59:06
iGuard Answer/Reply:
The manufacturer of Plavix is Sanofi, and their U.S. phone number is 1-800-981-2491. Sometimes drug companies have programs where patients can access coupons or even free drugs if they if their income meets program requirements.
Posted: 2009-09-20 14:38:35
Member Answer/Reply:
I think i can solve your problem.
i have been on plavix for the past 15 years,i have coverage through my wifes insurance and i pay 1.00 a pill for 75 mg.
the reason for this is i go through mail claims.
which means i get prescriptions from the doctor for 3 month intervals for a year,thats how her plan works.
you should see if you can do that.
also what you can do is,if you have access to walmart go to their drug store department,just hand the pharmasist your prescription and ask how much it will cost if you dont have insurance.
walmart doesnt want insurance companies paying for the medication and i have found out this is a much cheaper way of getting prescripts filled,they dont have every prescription but they do have most.
i know for a fact they dont have lipitor,thats another expensive drug i have to take.
but i just found out that in a few weeks,lipitor will have a generac brand...finally.
i hope this helps you,good luck and god bless.
Mark B. Parkesburg,Pa.
54 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-09-24 17:49:15
Question/Comment:
Is there any evidence that Plavix works just as well at lower dosages? Or every other day?
I am very sensitive to medications and have lowered lipitor to half of the lowest dosage (5 mg) and atenolol to half of the lowest dosage (12.5 mg).
71 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-09-07 17:01:44
Member Answer/Reply:
Good question. I am 70, more than a year ago had 4 stents put in, fine health now, can i reduce Plavix? Say take a half tablet each day?
70 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-11-14 06:31:55
iGuard Answer/Reply:
Plavix is indicated at 75mg per day after procedures such as yours. It would be best to make an appointment with your physician to discuss how long he or she feels you should continue the Plavix based on your medical history.
Posted: 2009-11-18 22:24:57
Question/Comment:
I am a 62 yr.old female that has been on Plavix & "baby aspirin" I bruise, but nearly as muc when I did while taking coumadin. I'm going to ceck with my Dr. about taking Plavix every other day & on te off day just taking a low dose aspirin. Someone mentioned being able to get their Plavix free by just filling out a form. Where are these forms available? I'm also on Depakote for te treatment of migraines. They have a program for getting free Depakote.
62 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-08-21 02:45:14
Question/Comment:
I been taking Plavix for 1yr. I had 2 Strokes so far; so good I'm doing just fine by the Grace of GOD! 46 year old female next month (Sept.) I'll be 47 & I Thank GOD for these blessed years.
47 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-08-14 18:53:42
Question/Comment:
I have been taking Plavix for about 2 years and am glad I am. I have had good luck with it. I have 5 stents put in in 2005 and also had a heart attack in 2007 so this helps to keep those arteries clear. I'm also on Warfarin and was on Aspirin but after a year the doctor took me off as I had a lot of bruising and now I don't have it. Thank God. I am 77 years old will be 78 in Sept.and feel great.
78 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-08-12 16:55:15
Member Answer/Reply:
I am 47 year old female, with a 7 year old son. While pregnant, I had two heart attacks. 13 months later I had a third heart attack. In April of this year I failed a stress test and had my 5th stent put in. I am on plavix, zocor and 81mg aspirin. I too, bruise very badly. But if the combination of drugs keeps me alive to raise my son, I will be black and blue from head to toe. I would not skimp on anything, if my doctor feels it is in my best interest. At first I complained to my doctor about the bruising and his reply was " Do you want bruises or do you want to die? The choice is yours! "
47 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-08-17 12:48:27
Question/Comment:
I had a "Cardiac Event" or a heart attack in august of 2008. My left circumflex artery was 95% blocked. A wire stent was put in and I have been on Plavix 75mg ( which I get free through the Makers of Plavix by filling out a form online) also I take one 325 asa along with 40mg of lovastatin and metotropol 50 mg. I have a lot of bruising , but I will take any day of the year bruising versus another heart attack or death. Small price to pay in my book. Also I feel safer knowing that this is helping my blood to sail thru rather than stopping at certain ports along the way! I also have had a back injury and will be having spinal surgery sometime this year, so I also take Somas. Also 1200 mg of fish oil. and last but not least Xanax 1mg 3x a day or as needed every 8 hours. I take the Xanax because after the heart attack I now get severe panic/anxiety attacks. The only thing that I have noticed besides the bruising is that I CANNOT take the Xanax and Soma together or even close together because I almost black out mentally and am not aware of what I am doing. That scares me, so I am VERY careful. I wish there was something out there besides Xanax or Ativan as I have been hearing alot of negative things about Xanax and Ativan does not help my panic attacks. I am a 60 year young female.
61 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-08-05 05:40:23
Member Answer/Reply:
I also take Plavix and was in a car accident that caused a spinal injury. The neurosurgeon tells me that I have to be off the Plavix for 20 days before she will do surgery on my back. My cardio. doc says "no way". So I'm stuck. You have told your back surgery doctor is aware of the Plavix isn't he/she?
63 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-08-18 13:17:40
Member Answer/Reply:
I am surprised that you have to be off plavix for 20 days for surgery. I and others I know have had to only be off plavix for 5 to 7 days for both out patient procedures and in patient surgeries. You do need to be off of it for a period of time, but that seems awful long. Maybe your cardiologist and neurologist should confer with each other. I have been on plavix for 5 years with good results. I have had to be off of it 3 times for out patient procedures for a period of seven days each time. My cardiologist had no problem. A lot depends, I'm sure on your heart history, that is why it would be good for them to talk to each other.
69 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-08-24 12:53:11
Member Answer/Reply:
An herbal supplement that helps with anxiety and stress is Valarian Root 500mg capsules. I take them--not as a sleep aid--but to reduce anxiety. I usually take 2 capsules in the morning and 2 capsules in the mid-afternoon and 2 in the evening as needed and no longer need Xanax. See what your doctor thinks about this.
63 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-08-27 22:49:04
Question/Comment:
I had a mini stroke about 4 years ago and have been on plavix , lipitor, and baby asprin ever since. I tend to bruise very badly and bleed very easily and would love to get off the medications, but my Dr. insists that if it works don't mess with it. Should I consult another Dr. ?
74 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-07-21 10:26:19
iGuard Answer/Reply:
Preventing another stroke is critical and your doctor has this as a primary concern. Plavix and aspirin are most likely causing your symptoms of bruising and bleeding. However, these medications are important to help prevent another stroke. If your bruising and bleeding symptoms are bothering you, it is worthwhile to have another discussion with your current doctor to weigh the benefits of these medicines against the side effects and also discuss how you may be able to treat or lessen the side effects that you are experiencing. With that said, seeking a second opinion is also a good idea, especially if you are still concerned about your side effects after speaking with your current doctor.
Posted: 2009-07-23 22:24:46
Member Answer/Reply:
You will just have to get used to the bruising. I have the same problem and already had a problem with bruising easily when I started the Plavix. You don't say if you have had a heart attack, but I'll tell you, that pain is just awful and I'll take the Plavix the rest of my life to stay alive and so what if I bruise? It means I'm still kicking!
63 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-08-18 12:59:20
Member Answer/Reply:
same combo here. Other than being bankrupted by the donut hole...I have 5 injections and 4 blood sugar readings a day...lots of bruising. The risk is still the same as always. If you stop the meds you may well have a stroke. It can't be easily undone. I hate the fact that I could go to Mexico every year for the cost of the Plavix alone, another time for the Lipitor. I need my brain, so I'll take the meds.
65 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-08-18 15:50:54
Member Answer/Reply:
I am a 59 year old female who has had insulin dependent diabetes since age 11. I have a number of complications, not the least of which is heart disease. My Dr. put me on Plavix about 2 years ago and I, too, bruise severely. I, however, have chosen to stay on it rather than risk a heart attack. To me the bruising is only superficial and I have not had any problems with excess bleeding when I've been hospitalized. I am taken off of Plavix 5 days before any surgery and then afterward am able to resume it. With my health issues, I'm thankful I'm on it.
60 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-08-18 19:07:07
Member Answer/Reply:
May I suggest that you take Plavix every other day, not every day; then take aspirin every other day, too. That way, since both are blood-thinners,
you won't get too much of either one. I, too, bruise and bleed easily now; but both heal relatively fast. I tried the every-other-day regime after a daily dose of Plavix, which was prescribed to keep blood clots from forming in my new cardiac stents, made me VERY depressed, despite also taking Paxil, an antidepressant. When I told my cardiologist what I had done and why, he protested mildly; but nothing more has been said about it. Hope my idea works for you.
62 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-08-19 10:35:11
Member Answer/Reply:
I to am on coumadin & Plavix for TIA's. I would much rather stay on those meds than chance having a major debilitating stroke. But by all means, if it would make you feel better talk things over with another of your doctors.
56 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-08-19 16:05:30
Member Answer/Reply:
yes please stay on thus meds i take it and it has saved my life
60 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-08-23 01:51:51
Question/Comment:
My doctor took me off of Plavix because of acid reflux which I take Prilosec twice a day for. She also increased my aspirin to 325 mg. I take the coated aspirin. I go back in four weeks to have another set of blood tests and EKG to see if I need the Plavix. She told me that the Prilosec was causing the plavix not to work. I was also on Lipitor which counteracts with the other two meds.
56 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-07-01 16:15:35
Member Answer/Reply:
I think that the Plavix is more important than the Prilosec. I know acid reflux is awful, but hey, if your heart clogs up you won't have to worry about that anymore. I have had over 10 angiograms have four stents in my heart, three stents in my femoral arteries in my legs and a brain aneursym that was coiled, so I take Plavix. I have the same problem with acid reflux and use the Rolaids with the anti-gas, anti-acid, etc. and it seems to work for me and doesn't conflict with the Plavix.
63 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-08-18 13:05:05
Member Answer/Reply:
I found that before and then after my heart attack, I developed a slight pain in the left side of chest, right side of breast, which they thought might be acid reflux, so I too, was put on that stuff. When the doc did the first annual intestine check, he also did an acid reflux test with camera, going both ways, ha, and found nothing, so get off the Prilosec pronto. Actually what I discovered was...it was caused by not going to the bathroom regular, the meds stopped me up. And too much caffenated drinks. So I take 1/3 - 1/2 cup plain no fat yogurt with the probiotics and it works wonders, and only get the pain occassionally. Also, nurse practioner suggested I try skipping 1-2 plavix per week to see if that helps, and yes it does, (my gums bleed like crazy even from pushing my tongue against them) amd the bruising I don't mind, except it hurts; well my gums don't seem to bleed that red! I skip every 5th, but take the baby aspirin daily.
60 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-09-11 15:58:25
Question/Comment:
My sister has been taking Plavix and I found out today she is also taking nattokinase. I thought both were blood thinners of a sort and am concerned that she is taking both. Her MD is not into supplemlents and I don't know if he is even aware of the supplements she is taking.
76 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-31 17:29:37
Question/Comment:
For those of us without pensions, the government drug program has the "doughnut hole" that will hit me in September meaning I will have to pay full price for Plavix which I may not be able to do. I am thinking of alternating days of taking Plavix one day and aspirin the other day. I may have no choice so I hope this works
69 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-26 19:23:30
Member Answer/Reply:
Have your doctor contact the maker of Plavix. Your doctor has to tell them its necessary. They send three months supply. They will go by your income. Or your state may give you some help with your doughnut hole.ASK YOUR DOCTOR CAN HELP. ALSO ASK YOR PHARMACY. HOPE THIS HELPS.
83 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-29 15:59:00
Member Answer/Reply:
I have been taking Plavix for a year and have only paid for it once. If you go to the website for Plavix you can get a form that you can get the Plavix directly from the company. You just need to follow the instsructions. It is worth checking out.
55 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-29 18:57:51
Member Answer/Reply:
Anyone have the web address fot the Plavix company for me to get the form. Thank You
you can e-mail it to me at jsc50@37.com
52 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-06-19 03:40:56
Member Answer/Reply:
I am taking Plavix as well and have found that if you talk to your doctor he may be able to provide you with enough sample to give you the ability to not skip doseages. I personally would not recomed skipping doseages. You may want to call the maker of Plavix and explain you situation aslo
48 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-06-10 22:34:24
Question/Comment:
I've been on Plavix and baby aspirin and Lipitor since 2005. Never had gout. Now have gout in the ankle. By taking a cherry pill supplement, I have been able to keep my gout in check. Bruising is common with Plavix. Wonder what long-term effects will be.
71 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-21 12:57:41
Member Answer/Reply:
I have been on Plavix a couple of years longer than you have and other than a greater tendency to bruise have not noticed any side effects. When brusing occurs, seldom do I remember what caused it. However, when I had some wisdom teeth removed, they wanted me off of it for 5 days prior to the procedure.
63 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-06-10 15:33:46
Member Answer/Reply:
I have also been taking plavix for about eight years and in the last year I have got gout in my feet , where do you get the Cherry pill supplement , I have heard it works !
56 year old – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-07-25 08:28:48
iGuard Answer/Reply:
Because cherry is a dietary supplement, it is not regulated or studied by the US FDA. There are no studies to determine interactions with the other prescription medications you are taking and not enough evidence to determine effectiveness of using cherry extract in gout. Make an appointment with your physician before adding any medication or supplement to your regimen.
Posted: 2009-07-27 18:18:00
Question/Comment:
I was told by a friend that taking Nexium while taking Plavixnegates the effectivness of Plavix. Is there any truth to this?
62 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-19 16:12:59
iGuard Answer/Reply:
Nexium and Plavix do have a drug interaction that is classified as major. Plavix is less effective in patients who also take Nexium or other proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), such as Aciphex, Prevacid, Protonix, or Prilosec. You should talk to your physician about this interaction and look to discuss possible alternatives to the Nexium if appropriate. There are other drugs that have similar effects as Nexium but do not have the drug interaction.
Posted: 2009-05-20 23:07:31
Question/Comment:
I take plavix 75mg and asa 325mg every day. I've experienced GI upset since I began taking both(post 2 cardiac stents). If proton-pump inhibitors are not safe to take with plavix what could I take? Zantac, Maalox,Tums?
57 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-09 14:35:51
Member Answer/Reply:
please do not take 325mg. asa in combination with plavix.
it will give you a stomach ulcer,.
dc the asa, or take 81 mg.
also take the co enzyme q10 150 mg. daily.
also a 56 year nurse, with angina problems
57 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-14 21:08:01
Member Answer/Reply:
It will give you stomach ulcers??? Really!??
My physician perscribed Plavix AND 325 ASA for over a year following heart bypass surgery.
PLEASE follow you physicians advise and not someone who writes on these blogs. Self adjusting your medications can be very dangerous. Any changes to you meds or routine should be with your physicians approval.
ALSO,... a
55 year old RN
s/p triple by-pass surgery.
56 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-22 14:46:47
Member Answer/Reply:
I am a 60 year old male with a history of multiple heart attacks. I have been taking the 325 aspirin since my Quintuple bypass in '91. Plavix was added in '99. Following more stents in 2008 the Dr reafirmed the combo. PLEASE listern to your Doctor! only the doc knows your case.
60 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-06-07 23:41:33
Member Answer/Reply:
WHAT IS ASA? PLEASE, THANK YOU
73 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-06-06 13:31:22
iGuard Answer/Reply:
ASA is commonly used as an abbreviation for aspirin. Aspirin is a medication that can help prevent clotting of the blood. Aspirin can reduce pain and fevers. It is available over-the-counter, but before adding any medications to your regimen, you should talk to your doctor about your specific conditions.
Posted: 2009-06-07 00:02:42
Member Answer/Reply:
I also take both of these mrds at the same dosage. try taking one in the am and one in the pm, it worked for me
60 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-16 15:38:13
Member Answer/Reply:
I have been taking both plavix and 81mg of asiprin for 7 years after 2 heart attacks 4 stents and open heart surgery (double baypass) I had that problem but my doctor perscribed PREVAICD 30mg and it works wonders ask your doctor if you can take it
Awilda
43 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-17 20:45:36
Member Answer/Reply:
Try taking regular pepcid (20 mg tablet) twice a day - one in am and one in pm. Generic is OK.
56 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-17 21:45:30
Member Answer/Reply:
Hello 56 year old female... I experienced to same only taking Plavix... I've been taking Pepcid Complete and haven't had any problems since... It may work for you as well... Give it a try if you wish... But, before taking it, check with your doctor first, is my reccomendation....
63 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-18 09:51:29
Member Answer/Reply:
I too take Plavix and Nexium that did not seem to mix favorably, including producing heart pain. I also have Coronary Artery disease with 2 stints in place at this time. Dr. suggested taking Nexium before breakfast and I decided to take Plavix at bedtime. Voila! So far great results. Also so heart pain. Cath. showed no new problems.
Larena M. - 75 years young
75 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-18 19:45:55
Member Answer/Reply:
zantac works for me
51 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-22 11:33:29
Member Answer/Reply:
Why are you taking 325 mg..? 81mg would be good enough.. I myself and several friends just take the 81mg. their are times when I have to stop and just take the plavix do to too much bleeding in the gums.
58 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-29 16:11:19
Member Answer/Reply:
I have to take plavix and 325 mg of asprin as a result of a heart attack. I had stomach problems after starting the asprin regimen, I talked to my pharmacist and switched for regular asprin to coated or enteric asprin and the problems stopped. I was told by both my doctor and the pharmacist that problem with taking antacids on a regular basis is it may slow the absorbtion of your medications due to the acid neutralizing properties of the antacids, I recommend switching to a coated asprin, see if that helps and if it doesn't then discuss the problem with doctor.
51 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-30 00:52:32
Member Answer/Reply:
I started taking prilosec 12/27/08 for acid reflux, 3/10/09 I had a heart attack and they put 2 stents in. My cardiologist has me on Plavix, 325 Ecotrin, Lipitor, Ramipril, Coreg and Fish Oil. He told me to continue on the prilosec, I haven't had any problems - - -
61 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-31 16:13:46
Question/Comment:
i have been on plavix for 3 months and i have a very severe case of bruising my doctor says its normal please give some insight on this and is this normal I was thinking about going off of it i am taking plavix and 325 mg asprin
51 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-02-28 22:08:43
Member Answer/Reply:
I do too
Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-03 21:43:25
Member Answer/Reply:
I have been on Plavix since 2004, following a series of TIA's (mini-strokes). Taking Plavix and 325 mg aspirin ( both blood thinners) can cause severe bleeding. Try taking one or the other, or decrease your aspirin to one 81 mg (baby aspirin) plus your Plavix. Make sure you let your doctor know and make sure he thinks this is proper. My bleeding has become very minimal since changing the medicines.
62 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-05 19:06:11
Member Answer/Reply:
I have been on plavix for almost 2 years and have had NO problems. You might just have weak cappillaries and bruise easily.
Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-06 09:15:03
Member Answer/Reply:
Yes this is normal. I have been on Plavix for 5 years. I was taking 325 mg of asprin with it. After about a year, I was cut down to 81 mg of asprin. That seem to cut down on the bruising but you do still bruise easily. Both Plavix and asprin are blood thinners and so you bruise easily. Don' t come off your Plavix unless your doctor tells you to.
56 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-06 09:59:18
Member Answer/Reply:
I hate my husband on Plavix because of the bruising. I feel that this is not normal to thin someones blood out this much. My husband take his Plavix,81 mg of aspirin and inderal also and the doctors told him that it is okay and he needed to take it for the rest of his life or he could die. The doctors have him so scared to even miss a dose. I feel that with the aspirin and the inderal to keep the blood thin is more then enough.
39 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-11 13:03:46
Member Answer/Reply:
my doctor took me off plavix because it was doing nore damage than good
70 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-23 15:58:45
Member Answer/Reply:
Don't ever simply stop Plavix without your physician advising such. I have been on it for 7 months now and have had my share of negative side effects. The bruising seemed to subside some after 3-4 months, but I am only taking 81 mg of aspirin. The aspirin could also be contributing to that, but again, check with your doctor. My experience has been sometimes you have to repeatedly complain about the same thing for the docs to really hear you. Again -- don't change a medicine as critically important as Plavix without first consulting your physician!
Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-12 11:50:52
Member Answer/Reply:
Hello Dear , my name is Norman and I had double by-pass open heart surgery about five years ago . Yes , this is normal as I too bruise very easily as I too asked my doctor and he told me it's normal . It also takes a long time for my blood to clot if I cut myself and am taking Toprol XL 25 MG ( 3 ) . Also I'm taking 81MG Johnson's Aspirin . Been on these since my operation .
Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-16 23:45:51
Member Answer/Reply:
I was taking aspirin and plavix also...But was cut down to..81mg aspirin..from 325mg .am doing much better now...wish you the best...
61 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-23 16:58:28
Member Answer/Reply:
Had the same thing with the bruising. Sometimes when I hit my hand the whole thing get black and Blue. Seems to have eased up some so am not concerned about it. Am more concerned about the consequences of not taking Plavix
69 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-23 18:40:16
Member Answer/Reply:
I experienced the same severe bruising. My doctor lowered my asprin to 81 mg. I still have severe bruising.
51 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-24 23:06:35
Member Answer/Reply:
My doctor had me on Plavix & baby Aspirin which is a much smaller dose than what you are taking. I think baby aspirin is about 82 mg.
I had to stop the Aspirin, the bruising almost went away completely.
Maybe ask your doctor again how to stop the bruising?
63 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-25 15:17:02
Member Answer/Reply:
I too am taking Plavix and 325mg aspirin. Both thin the blood and make you more likely to bruise. I was able to convince the Dr. to let me take Plavix every other day and this seems to have helped with the bruising although I do still bleed readily when cut. I too am a patient not a professional!
52 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-25 19:51:38
Member Answer/Reply:
I have been on plavix for over 3 years and yes your doctor is correct on the bruising part but I would ask if you can drop to 81mg asprine instead of the 325mg. That is what my doctor recommended and I had a serve heart attack back in 2006 and when I switch the asprine dose my bruising became less.
50 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-26 15:26:14
Member Answer/Reply:
My husband takes Plavix, When he started he also took asprin but only 80mg. Maybe your asprin dosage should be reduced. He has never had any bruising with his.
56 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-26 19:43:19
Member Answer/Reply:
I was 50 when I had my first small heart attack and didn't know what was wrong. I had been taking Zocor for high cholestrol for few months as my cholestrol level was high. I just felt real bad and wanted to sleep so I went to Doctor and they couldn't find my pulse, No joke. Had to take blood to find the pulse. She took me off my cholestrol medicine and I was having muscle weakness and put me on strong antibiotic like for walking phenumonia. Well it worked for good 8 months till i started getting chest pains. Had to have triple by bass before I was 51. I recament that u lower your aspirin intake and if you'r on I bphofron get off them. 81gram Baby aspirin is enough but also Please have your cholestrol checked ASAP. Especially your LDL and Triclycrides. Hope this helps. I didn't start Plavix till after my Surgery and that was 11 years ago. GOOD LUCK.
63 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-28 23:29:22
Member Answer/Reply:
50 year old woman. I have been on Plavix for six years and have had no bruising. You should not be taking 325mg aspirin as it is thinning out your blood to much, You could also be causing your stomach to bleed, which could land you in the hospital for a blood transfusion.
67 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-29 23:20:05
Member Answer/Reply:
I was the same when I first started taking plavix and my dr told me to cut back on the asprin to 80mg and take everyother day hope this helps
68 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-30 14:12:50
Member Answer/Reply:
I have been on plavix for 5 yrs along with the 325 aspirin. I do not have excessive bruising and quite truthfully would not want to go off plavix based on what I have read...I would reconsider your thoughts about going off either one or both...good luck.
60 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-30 18:37:26
Member Answer/Reply:
I have been on Plavix 75 mg and 2 baby aspirin per day for five months.I also do bruise more easily and of course bleed with the smallest nick or cut. However, I would think that this is better than getting a blod clot which could end our lives.
75 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-04-02 12:42:35
Member Answer/Reply:
I am taking Plavix 75 mg and have been since 7/2003 when I suffered a massive stroke. I take 81 mg aspirin as well.. Get in touch with your cardiologist and discuss lowering the aspirin dosage. Don't stop taking meds without your doctor's advice. Are you having blood test done? Again, your doctor should be doing this. Lab tests should be PT, PTT, APTT AND FIBRINOGEN. the results from thes should direct your doctor as to how to manage your meds.
59 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-04-02 12:53:59
Member Answer/Reply:
I have been on Plavix since Oct 2003. I also take 325mg aspirin. It takes nothing for me to have this huge bruuises. It usually takes at least 2 weeks for them to go away. I would talk to my doctor before getting off of any meds. I've asked my doctor in the past about the bruises. He says that it is normal. I always bruise on my fore arms and hands. I look like something out of a horror movie! My bruises can be 3 or 4 inches in size. I am going to ask the doc about lowering my aspirin. I had 5 stents installed in 9 months. I'll probably be on both meds for the rest of my life.
53 year old Male – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-05-04 19:45:56
Question/Comment:
I am a 45 yr old and 2 yrs ago, was diagnoised as having PAD, 1 1/2 yrs. ago i had fem-fem bipass surgery, which helped i had 98% blockage in both my legs. I now have 87% blood flow (and can walk again). I havebeen on plavix since my by-pass, the main problem i'm having is excessive bleeding (nearly hemmoring) They thought that i was premenapausal but after being put on progesterine for 6 mths, with no change, They took me off of the progestrine. I would love to know (since they wont do a hystrectomy because of the synthitic artery they put across my abdomen), what i could possibly do to stop the bleeding???
46 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-02-13 22:11:03
Member Answer/Reply:
I was 41 when I had abd bi fem bypass. Have been taking Plavix ever since. Did have right coronary stent put in after that. Do you think the med is doing what it claims?? Or could it be that I am the walking dead.
Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-02-21 09:36:55
Member Answer/Reply:
Anytime you are on PLavix you are going to have Hemmorage like bleeding, you need to report this to your physicians immediately and demand answers.
You can look up and meds on a website called www.pdr.com put in the med you are requsting information on and it will tell you what you need to know.
Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-02-23 15:14:47
Question/Comment:
I wonder if any of my medications cause hair loss? Expecially plavix.
77 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-02-06 12:50:07
Member Answer/Reply:
If you are on others meds that can cause you to have a over abundance of male hormones being produced can then cause you to have hair loss
Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-02-23 15:12:19
Member Answer/Reply:
I haven't heard that Plavix causes hair loss, but I have had the experience with a blood pressure pill called Norvasc.
66 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-05 18:05:56
Member Answer/Reply:
I just stopped taken plavix, but had taken it for the past 5 years and did
not loose any of my hair. My hair grows very rapidly and I can tell you there is
no worry about loosing your hair!
Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-19 13:00:18
Question/Comment:
I wonder if any of my medications cause hair loss?
77 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-02-06 12:49:12
Member Answer/Reply:
To much male hormaones is what causes hair loss, I worked for Bosley Hair restoration. There is a couple things you can do, depending on where your hair loss is, in the crown use Rogaine, if on the top hair transplantation. Rubbing a onion and all the other home remedies DO NOT WORK!
Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-02-23 15:07:22
Member Answer/Reply:
My husbands been on Plavix for 3 years now and he has not lost any hair that I have seen.
39 year old Female – Source: iGuard
Posted: 2009-03-11 12:57:48
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