Antiplatelet medicines for peripheral arterial disease

Examples

Generic Name	Brand Name
abciximab	ReoPro
aspirin with extended-release dipyridamole	Aggrenox
clopidogrel bisulfate	Plavix
ticlopidine	Ticlid
tirofiban	Aggrastat

How It Works

Antiplatelets work in various ways to prevent blood clots.

Why It Is Used

These medicines may be used in people who cannot take aspirin (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 when compared with a placebo. One study showed that clopidogrel (Plavix) worked better than aspirin in reducing the number of heart attacks and strokes for some people with PAD.² However, aspirin is often prescribed because it not as expensive as Plavix.

Side Effects

Some side effects of these antiplatelet medicines may include:

• Stomach irritation.
• Bleeding in the stomach or intestines.
• Allergic reaction.
• Increased bruising.
• Increased bleeding (hemorrhage) in the brain or other internal organs.
• Lowered numbers of blood cells in people who take Ticlid.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

What To Think About

These medicines appear to be more effective than anticoagulant medicines such as heparin and warfarin.

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.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

Author:	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH Ralph Poore	Last Updated November 3, 2005
Medical Review:	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine David A. Szalay, MD - Vascular Surgery
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.