Plavix (clopidogrel) if you have a stint and stop taking plavix (clopidogrel): is there a risk? can you stop taking plavix (clopidogrel)?

It : It depends on what type of stent you have and how long you have had it. Many newer generation stents are coated with a medicine to prevent the stent from narrowing. These are called drug eluting stents (des). You must take Plavix (clopidogrel) for a minimum of one year after this type of stent is placed, and many cardiologists recommend you continue to take it indefinitely unless you have complications from the medicine. If you discontinue the medication before advised, there is a risk of a blood clot forming in the stent which would block blood flow and result in a heart attack. There are also bare metal stents (bms) without the drug coating. These only require Plavix (clopidogrel) for one month. If you are currently taking Plavix (clopidogrel) after having a stent placed, it is extremely important that you discuss with your cardiologist whether you can stop it. And never let another physician stop your Plavix (clopidogrel) without discussing with your cardiologist first.

Yes: Plavix (clopidogrel ) is a blood thinner used with Aspirin to prevent clotting of a metal heart stent. It is recommended that Aspirin be taken for life. Plavix is recommended for 1 year with a drug-coated stent and for 30 days with a bare metal stent. Many doctors recommend their patients stay on Plavix longer for safety. Discuss this with your cardiologist.