I have been taking Plavix for 2 months after a heart attack and stent placement.?

Question

One week ago, I began to notice rectal bleeding as well as blood in my urine. After bloodwork results were observed, my primary care physician (a clinic resident) didn't want me to stop Plavix as he feared it would cause restinosis of my stent. Since I was not enemic he advised me to continue Plavix and closely monitor any changes. Does this sound like good advice? What should I do?

Answer 1

I would see a licensed cardiologist for that determination. I have severe coronary artery disease with four major blockages. I had the LAD stented and was told by my cardiologist I would take plavix for the rest of my life! (I have the drug eluding stent) Stents are very controversial depending on who you talk to. I stopped the Plavix just after one year post stenting and all symptoms began reappearing. I went back on Plavix with an Aspirin regiment and so far all is well other tha slow heart beat (50bpm) which my cardiologist says is good in my case because it puts less strain on the heart.
I would definitely seek another opinion. If it restenosis, you are at risk for death!
I experience no internal bleeding but do bruise very easily if bumped or whatever. Bleeding from the rectum I would say is not normal and may indicate other serious medical conditions! I wouldn't hesitate seeking medical attention.

Answer 2

I disagree.

I've been taking Plavix for years and I have never had any side effect like you are describing. It is *not* normal. In your case the Plavix is NOT DOING WHAT IT IS SUPPOSED TO DO. The Plavix is not supposed to cause internal bleeding. It is suppose to inhibit blood clots from forming which could lead to a heart attack or stroke. Let me repeat... It is not normal for Plavix to cause bleeding anywhere on or in your body.

I assume you are taking 75 mg of Plavix daily. Are you also taking aspirin with the Plavix? This intensifies the effect of the Plavix.

You need to get another opinion ASAP in my opinion. Please do so.

Answer 3

This is NOT a usual side effect of Plavix and it is not normal,I would get a second opinion or a new primary care doctor and see the doctor as soon as possible and if bleeding worsens I would suggest the nearest ER.

Answer 4

I think that's sound advice. The bleeding you're experiencing is a normal side-effect, and indicates that the Plavix is doing what it's supposed to do. The saying about anticoagulants goes, "patients don't bleed to death, they clot to death" -- meaning that the dangers from clot formation in high-risk patients is much greater than the bleeding seen as adverse effects. In your case, you are at VERY high risk (post-MI, post-stent) for a thrombotic event (clot), and absolutely need to be on Plavix, aspirin, or some anticoagulant.