Antiplatelet medicines for peripheral arterial disease
Examples
Generic Name Brand Name abciximab ReoPro ASA with extended-release dipyridamole Aggrenox clopidogrel bisulfate Plavix ticlopidine tirofiban Aggrastat How It Works
Antiplatelets work in various ways to prevent blood clots.
Why It Is Used
These medicines may be used instead of ASA (which is also an antiplatelet medicine) or after a person has had a procedure (such as bypass surgery, atherectomy, or angioplasty) performed on a blood vessel.
How Well It Works
These medicines can prevent the formation of blood clots in people who have peripheral arterial disease (PAD).1 Studies show that antiplatelet medicines reduce the number of heart attacks and strokes in people with PAD.
Side Effects
Some side effects of these antiplatelet medicines may include:
- Stomach irritation.
- Bleeding in the stomach or intestines.
- Allergic reaction.
- Increased bruising.
- Bleeding (hemorrhage) in the brain or other internal organs.
- Lowered numbers of blood cells in people who take ticlopidine.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
All antiplatelet medicines increase the risk of bleeding.
The best dosage and length of treatment with these medicines is still under study.
These medicines can also lower the risk of heart attack and stroke, which are common causes of death in people who have PAD.
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| Author: | Robin Parks, MS | Last Updated: February 22, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine David A. Szalay, MD - Vascular Surgery | |
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| Topic Contents | |
| Examples | |
| How It Works | |
| Why It Is Used | |
| How Well It Works | |
| Side Effects | |
| What To Think About | |
| References | |