Health Library Antiplatelet Medicines for Peripheral Arterial DiseaseFrom Healthwise

Antiplatelets work in various ways to prevent blood clots.

These medicines may be used instead of aspirin (which is also an antiplatelet medicine) or after a person has had a procedure (such as bypass surgery, atherectomy, or angioplasty) performed on a blood vessel.

These medicines can prevent the formation of blood clots in people who have peripheral arterial disease (PAD).¹ Studies show that antiplatelet medicines reduce the number of heart attacks and strokes in people with PAD.

Some side effects of these antiplatelet medicines may include:

• Stomach irritation.
• Bleeding in the stomach or intestines.
• Allergic reaction.
• Increased bruising.
• Bleeding (hemorrhage) in the brain or other internal organs.
• Lowered numbers of blood cells in people who take Ticlid.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

All antiplatelet medicines increase the risk of bleeding.

The best dosage and length of treatment with these medicines is still under study.

These medicines can also lower the risk of heart attack and stroke, which are common causes of death in people who have PAD.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

Citations

1. Tran H, Anand SS, (2004). Oral antiplatelet therapy in cerebrovascular disease, coronary artery disease, and peripheral arterial disease. JAMA, 292 (15): 1867–1874.

Author:	Robin Parks, MS	Last Updated: October 30, 2007
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine David A. Szalay, MD - Vascular Surgery
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