Medication Basics
Generic Name: Ticlopidine
Brand Name: Ticlid
Medication Class: Antiplatelet
Description
Ticlopidine, similar to clopidogrel, is an important medication which inhibits platelets in the body to “thin” the blood or make it less likely to clot. It is most commonly used after having a stent placed to treat coronary artery plaques in order to prevent the stent from clotting off. Ticlopidine was actually the first medication in this class of antiplatelet drugs to be developed, but has largely been abandoned in favor of clopidogrel due to less potential for serious side effects. It generally is only used in cases where a patient develops a severe allergy to clopidogrel.
When might my doctor prescribe this medication?
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After receiving a stent for blockages in my arteries (in combination with aspirin)
I should NOT take this medication if:
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I have had an allergic reaction to ticlopidine in the past
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I have severe liver disease
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I have certain diseases which cause me to have low blood counts
Adverse Effects (common):
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Diarrhea
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Minor bruising or bleeding
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Increased cholesterol
Adverse Effects (rare, but serious):
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Severe or lifethreatening bleeding
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Low white blood cell counts
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Aplastic anemia
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Low platelet counts
Common Adult Doses and Forms:
Ticlopidine (Ticlid): 250 mg twice daily
Dosage Forms:
Ticlopidine (Ticlid) (tablet): 250 mg
How should I take this medication?
Ticlopidine should be taken with meals. Do not stop taking ticlopidine, particularly after having a coronary stent placed, without talking to your doctor. Certain types of stents will require you to be on ticlopidine for a longer period of time. It is extremely important to take ticlopidine every day for a certain period of time (per your doctor) after receiving a stent. While taking ticlopidine, you should receive regular laboratory monitoring to check on your blood counts.
Please note that the content on CardioSmart is a summary of the most generally pertinent information about this drug but does not cover every side effect or precaution. However, everyone is unique, and the extent to which the information applies specifically to you should be a key point of discussion between you and your cardiologist or health care provider. The ultimate judgment regarding your care must be made by you and your healthcare provider together, in light of circumstances specific to you as a patient.
