Plavix VS Coumadin

A friend of mine who is a heart surgeon said that the side effects of Plavix were way easier to deal with, and that Coumadin was only 1 1/2% better at preventing strokes than Plavix. Apparently with Plavix, you don't need to be drug in for blood tests all of the time. Also, Life Extension had a good artical on Vitamin K and Coumadin doses. Vitamin K has more roles than just clotting, and Coumadin can deprive the body of it.

Has anyone switched to Plavix? Anyone have any imput? I'm on aspirin now, but I can see a more specific drug coming.

Thanks!

Jim Jim

3 Comments

Plavix, Coumadin, Aspirin

by mrag - 2009-02-01 03:02:26

(I'm too dumb to figure out how to edit my last message). I take all three daily. About 2 mg of coumadin, 75 mg of Plavix and an 81 mg aspirin tablet EVERY day.

Plavix, Coumadin, Aspirin

by mrag - 2009-02-01 03:02:53

Got an ICD (and by-pass surgery) back in Feb 2006 and because of A-fib or whatever else, left hospital using Coumadin and aspirin (81mg) among other drugs. Every month I need blood test for coumadin level. Last July 2008, I needed a (drug eluding) stent put in and they then added Plavix to my list. I was told I would need to take Plavix for at least a year although now I am hearing 18 months and or forever. Coumadin is generic warfarin(?) and costs about $30 for 90 day supply. Plavix does NOT have generic and costs about $400 for 90 day supply!!!!

I've not noticed any side effects to Plavix other than my pocketbook. With Lipitor and Amiodarone (both expensive) also on my list, those three drugs cost me AFTER insurance a small fortune.

With coumadin, you do want to maintain a "consistent amount of vitamin K in your diet" with the US FDA recommending 80 micrograms of K daily so stay away from "cooked spinach" (1027 per 1 cup serving)

Switched from Plavix to aspirin

by BillMFl - 2009-02-01 07:02:24

After being on Plavix (espensive!) for about a year, I read a study that said it was only slightly more effective than aspirin. At my next visit, I asked my Cardiologist if that was true. He said it was probably only a little better than aspirin so I switched. Aspirin is cheap and effective. People with blockages probably should take both.

You know you're wired when...

“Batteries not included” takes on a new meaning.

Member Quotes

My quality of life is better already and I know it will extend my lifespan.