DIPYRIDAMOLE
Brand names Cerebrovase, Modaplate, Persantin
Used in the following combined preparations None
GENERAL INFORMATION
Dipyridamole was introduced in the late 1970s as an anti-angina drug, to improve the capability of people with angina to exercise. Although more effective drugs are now available for that purpose, dipyridamole is still prescribed as an antiplatelet drug. It “thins” the blood in patients who have had heart valve replacement surgery, reducing the pos¬sibility of blood clots in the circulation.
Dipyridamole is usually given together with other drugs such as warfarin or aspirin. The drug can also be given by injection during certain types of diagnostic test on the heart.
Side effects may occur, especially during the early days of treatment. If they persist, your doctor may advise a reduction in dosage.
INFORMATION FOR USERS
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken
Tablets, injection.
Frequency and timing of doses
3-4 x daily, 1 hour before meals.
Adult dosage range
300-600mg daily.
Onset of effect
Within 1 hour. Full therapeutic effect may not be felt for 2-3 weeks.
Duration of action
Up to 8 hours.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children. Protect from light.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 2 hours, take a single dose now and skip the next.
Stopping the drug
Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor; withdrawal of the drug could lead to abnormal blood clotting.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to be a cause for concern. Large overdoses may cause dizziness or vomiting. Notify your doctor.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
Adverse effects are rare. Possible symptoms include dizziness, headache, faintness,
nausea, and rash. In rare cases, the drug may aggravate angina.
INTERACTIONS
Anticoagulant drugs
The effects of these drugs may be increased by dipyridamole, thereby increasing the risk of uncontrolled bleeding. The dosage of the anticoagulant should be reduced accordingly.
Antacids may reduce the effectiveness of dipyridamole.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Antiplatelet drug
Overdose danger rating Medium
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic Yes
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
You have low blood pressure.
Your suffer from migraine.
You have angina.
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
Safety in pregnancy not established. Discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding
The drug passes into the breast milk but at normal doses adverse effects on the baby are unlikely. Discuss with your doctor.
Infants and children
Reduced dose necessary.
Over 60
No special problems.
Driving and hazardous work
Avoid such activities until you have learned how dipyridamole affects you because the drug may cause dizziness and faintness.
Alcohol
No known problems.
PROLONGED USE
No known problems.
