07/11, 2007
Dipyridamole Information - Side Effects, Uses and Benefits
Dipyridamole Information - Drug Interactions
Type of Drug:
Antiplatelet agent.
How the Dipyridamole Products Works:
Platelets are components of the blood that aid in clot formation. Blood clots often form on platelets that have clumped together. Dipyridamole helps prevent blood clots from forming by preventing platelets from clumping together.
Uses of dipyridamole Products :
Given in combination with oral anticoagulants (eg, warfarin) to prevent blood clot formation after heart valve surgery.
Unlabeled Uses: Occasionally doctors may prescribe derivable with aspirin to prevent heart attacks and reduce heart attack damage.
Precautions:
Do not use in the following situations: Allergy to the drug or any of its ingredients.
Use with caution in the following situations: coronary artery disease, severe liver disease low blood pressure
Hypo tension (low blood pressure): Dipyridamole may aggravate light-headedness in people with low blood pressure. Use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position.
Pregnancy: There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed and the potential benefits outÂweigh the possible risks to the fetus.
Breastfeeding: Dipyridamole appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before you begin breastfeeding.
Children: Safety and effectiveness have not been established in children younger than 12 years of age.
Lab tests may be required to monitor therapy. Tests include liver function monitoring.
Side Effects of Pipyridamole
Every drug is capable of producing side effects. Many patients experience no, or minor, side effects. The frequency and severity of side effects depend on many factors including dose, duration of therapy, and individual susceptibility. Possible side effects include:
Digestive Tract: Stomach ache; diarrhea; vomiting.
Other: Dizziness; light-headedness; fainting; headache; rash; flushing; itching; abnormal liver tests.
Guidelines for Use:
- Dosage is individualized. Take exactly as prescribed.
- Do not stop taking or change the dose, unless instructed by your doctor.
- Take without regard to food, but take with food is stomach upset occurs.
- If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless instructed by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed or it is necessary to establish a new dosage schedule, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
- If using this medicine in combination with oral anticoagulants (eg, warfarin), do not take aspirin, unless instructed by your doctor.
- Lab tests may be required to monitor therapy. Be sure to keep appointments.
- Store at room temperature (59° to 86°F).
Tagged under:antiplatelet agent, Antiplatelet Agents, breastfeeding, dipyridamole, drug interactions oral anticoagulants