Definition

Noun: * A proprietary antiplatelet medication: "Plavix" is the brand name for the drug clopidogrel. It is an oral medication that works by inhibiting blood platelets from aggregating (sticking together), thereby preventing the formation of harmful blood clots.

Usage

• "Plavix" is used as a proper noun, always capitalized, to refer specifically to the branded pharmaceutical product.
• It is commonly prescribed by doctors and discussed in medical contexts.

Examples

• The cardiologist prescribed Plavix to reduce the patient's risk of another stroke.
• After receiving a coronary stent, patients are typically placed on Plavix for a specific duration.
• A common side effect of Plavix is an increased risk of bleeding.

Advanced Usage

• "On Plavix": A common phrase meaning a patient is taking the medication as part of their treatment regimen.
  • He will be on Plavix and aspirin for at least one year after the procedure.

Variants and Related Words

• Clopidogrel (noun): The generic, non-proprietary name for the drug.
  • Many insurance plans now cover the generic clopidogrel instead of the brand-name Plavix.
• Antiplatelet (adjective/noun): Describing a class of drugs that prevent platelet aggregation; "Plavix" is an antiplatelet agent.
• Blood thinner (noun): A common lay term for anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications like "Plavix".

Synonyms

• Clopidogrel: This is the direct synonym, as it is the drug's generic name.
• Antiplatelet agent/medication: A broader categorical synonym.

Related Phrases

• Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT): A standard treatment strategy involving two antiplatelet drugs, often aspirin plus Plavix (clopidogrel).
  • Following the heart attack, she was started on dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and Plavix.

Noun

1. a blood thinner (trade name Plavix) approved for the treatment of mild heart attacks; works by preventing blood platelets from sticking together to form clots that would restrict blood flow