How to Evaluate the Side Effects of Plavix
- 1). Keep an eye out for hives. Some people develop an allergic reaction to Plavix, with symptoms including, but not limited to hives, swelling of the face, the throat, and cause difficulty in breathing. It goes without saying that if any of these symptoms occur, stop taking Plavix immediately and call a doctor.
- 2). Monitor the patient's stools. Sometimes Plavix can cause bloody or black stools.
- 3). Be aware of chest pain. Some patients experience the side effect of chest pain that emanates down the arm to the shoulder, sweating nausea and an overall feeling of ill health.
- 4). Take notice of the patient's mental state. Sometimes Plavix can cause confusion, light headedness, dizziness, blurred vision or speech problems. This is a serious side effect and requires medical attention.
- 5). Look for uncontrolled bleeding. Since Plavix is an anti clotting drug, if the patient experiences uncontrolled bleeding such as a nosebleed or a cut or injury that will not stop bleeding, it's time to call for medical assistance.
- 6). Make a list of all the medications the patient is taking prior to taking Plavix. Some drugs will interfere with Plavix's effectiveness or cause unwanted reactions. Drugs such as phenytoin, tolbutamide, tamoxifen and fluvastatin to name a few are known to interact with Plavix. Before taking Plavix, make the prescribing doctor aware of all medications the patient is currently taking.
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