Plavix (Clopidogrel): Understanding Bleeding Risks & Side Effects

Plavix is a commonly prescribed drug for people at risk of developing blood clots. The drug prevents blood cells from clotting and is a common medication for people who recently suffered from a stroke, heart attack or other blood-related disease. While Plavix can be effective in preventing blood clots, a potentially dangerous side effect of the drug is bleeding. Since Plavix is a blood thinner, this can pose a serious danger to a patient.

Skin

• Plavix patients may experience sensitivity to bruising or bleeding through cuts in the skin. Cuts may take longer than normal to clot and scab due to the blood-thinning medication.

Gastrointestinal

• A serious side effect of Plavix is bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. Plavix may increase the risk of hemorrhaging or developing ulcers in the stomach or intestines, which can be life-threatening.

Symptoms

• Patients experiencing gastrointestinal bleeding from Plavix may pass bloody stools or vomit blood. Black stools or vomit are also an indication of internal bleeding and require medical attention.

Alcohol

• Drinking alcohol while on a Plavix regimen can dramatically increase the risk of bleeding. Alcohol causes blood vessels to constrict, which further increases the risk of bleeding.

Aspirin

• Even in low doses, aspirin is an effective blood thinner. Taking aspirin during a Plavix regimen increases the risk of developing gastrointestinal bleeding. Plavix should not be taken with aspirin.