Plavix

Brand name: Plavix Generic name: Clopidogrel Drug Classification: Anticoagulant, antithrombotics & fibrinolytics Indication: for the reduction of atherosclerotic events (MI, stroke & vascular death) in patients w/ atherosclerosis documented by recent stroke, MI or established peripheral arterial disease. For the treatment of patients suffering from non- ST segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (unstable angina or non-Q wave MI) in combination w/ ASA. Mechanism of Action: low dosage aspirin appear to inhibit clot formation by blocking the synthesis of prostaglandin, which in turn prevents formation of the plateletaggregating substance thromboxane A2. Clopidogrel Dosage: 75 mg daily Contraindication: Severe liver impairment. Peptic ulcer and intracranial hemorrhage. Lactation. Special Precaution: Patients who may be at risk of increased bleeding from trauma, surgery or other pathological conditions. Patients w/ moderate hepatic disease who may have bleeding diatheses. Pregnancy. Adverse Reaction: CNS: depression, dizziness, fatigue, headache

EENT: epistaxis RESP: cough, dyspnea CV: Chest pain, edema, hypertension GI: GI bleeding, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dyspepsia, gastritis DERM: pruritus, purpura, rash HEMAT: bleeding, neutropenia, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura METAB: hypercholesterolemia MS: arthralgia, back pain MISC: fever, hypersensitivity reactions Form: Film- coated tablet- 75mg Pregnancy Risk Category: B Nursing Responsibilities:  Assess patient for symptoms of stroke, peripheral vascular disease, or MI periodically during therapy.  Monitor patient for signs of thrombotic thrombocytic purpura (thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, neurologic findings, renal dysfunction, fever).  Monitor bleeding time during therapy.  Monitor CBC with differential and platelet count periodically during therapy.