Ticlid®, known by the generic name ticlopidine, is a medication usually given to patients at a risk for stroke. It is typically prescribed for individuals who have either already had a stroke, or who have conditions that put them at higher risk of having a stroke. It can also be prescribed to help prevent heart attack. Ticlid® works by preventing blood clotting.
The drug may also be prescribed for several other conditions and situations. Ticlid® can be administered as part of the treatment of kidney and sickle cell disease or for blocked leg arteries. It may also be given to patients before they undergo open heart surgery.
In the first few weeks of taking Ticlid®, patients are usually carefully monitored by a medical professional for any adverse reaction. For the first few months of treatment, blood tests are run to be sure that the patient is not suffering side effects as a result of taking the medication. These tests are important, because early detection is a key factor in catching a bad reaction to the drug before it becomes too serious.
As Ticlid® can cause blood to flow more freely, it may be advisable to avoid certain high-risk activities, such as sports with a high rate of injury. A doctor should be able to provide guidance as to what level of activity is appropriate for a particular patient. Any injuries should also be reported to a doctor as soon as possible.
Many of the side effects of Ticlid® are fairly serious and usually require immediate medical attention. Any kind of bleeding, particularly if it is difficult to stop, should be reported. Bruises, sores, or growths in the mouth, and bloody or unusually dark urine should also be treated as soon as possible. Yellowing in the eyes and skin, skin rash, and seizure are other indications of a severe reaction to the drug.
Ticlid® can also drastically reduce the number of infection-fighting white blood cells in the body. This condition usually presents itself with the signs of an infection, including a sore throat, fever, or chills. The drug can also lower the number of platelets in the blood, which can lead to kidney trouble, anemia, and damage to the red blood cells.
There are several conditions which may increase the risks involved in taking Ticlid®. A doctor should be informed if a patient has blood disease or a history of blood clotting difficulties. Liver disease, kidney disease, and stomach ulcers may also be problematic.
