Does Plavix cause hair loss?

In this brief article, we will discuss the inquiry regarding whether Plavix causes hair loss, as well as what steps to take if you suspect that this medication is contributing to hair loss. Furthermore, we will explore the adverse effects associated with Plavix and provide an overview of the currently available alternatives of antiplatelet agents.

Plavix is a platelet antiaggregant medication that is not commonly associated with hair loss (1,2).

Talk to your doctor if you suspect that Plavix is causing hair loss for you. They will likely investigate the cause of your issue.

There are potential additional side effects associated with Plavix. If you experience any uncommon symptoms while taking this medication, it is advisable to contact your doctor (1,3).

There are other alternatives for antiplatelet treatments available (4). If you are considering switching your treatment, it is recommended to discuss it with your doctor. They will be able to guide you and suggest the most appropriate alternative for you.

Does Plavix cause hair loss?

Plavix (Clopidogrel) is not commonly associated with hair loss as a side effect. 

Unlike traditional anticoagulant medications such as warfarin and heparin, which are known to induce hair loss, Plavix is a platelet antiaggregant medication that is not commonly associated with hair loss (1,2).

However, each person is unique and responds differently to treatments. Talk to your doctor if you experience any unwanted side effects while taking Plavix.

What to do if you suspect that Plavix is causing hair loss?

Talk to your doctor if you suspect that Plavix is causing hair loss for you. 

They will likely investigate the cause of your issue, and if it is indeed associated with the use of the medication, they may consider replacing Plavix with another more suitable medication. 

You should not stop using the medication without consulting your doctor first.

What are the adverse effects associated with Plavix?

Plavix may cause side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms persistently or if they are bothersome, it is important to inform your doctor (1,3):

  • excessive tiredness
  • headache
  • dizziness
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • stomach pain
  • diarrhea
  • nosebleed

Certain side effects can have serious implications. If you encounter any of the subsequent symptoms, it is crucial to promptly contact your doctor (1,3):

  • hives
  • rash
  • itching
  • difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
  • hoarseness
  • black and tarry stools
  • red blood in stools
  • bloody vomit
  • vomit that looks like coffee grounds
  • unusual bleeding or bruising
  • pink or brown urine
  • slow or difficult speech
  • weakness or numbness of an arm or a leg
  • changes in vision
  • fever
  • shortness of breath
  • fast heartbeat
  • pale skin
  • purple patches or bleeding under the skin
  • confusion
  • yellowing of the skin or eyes
  • seizures

There are potential additional side effects associated with Plavix. If you encounter any uncommon issues while taking this medication, it is advisable to contact your doctor.

Please note that excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of gastric bleeding.

What are the currently available alternatives of antiplatelet agents?

In addition to Plavix, other oral antiplatelet options include (4):

  • Aspirin
  • Ticagrelor
  • Prasugrel
  • Cilostazol
  • Dipyridamole

It is important to remember that you should not switch treatments without consulting your doctor first, as they are the ones who can recommend the most appropriate medication for you.

Conclusion

In this brief article, we have discussed the inquiry regarding whether Plavix causes hair loss, as well as what steps to take if you suspect that this medication is contributing to hair loss. Furthermore, we have explored the adverse effects associated with Plavix and provide an overview of the currently available alternatives of antiplatelet agents.

Was this helpful?

Thanks for your feedback!

References

1.-

PLAVIX® (clopidogrel bisulfate).  U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Reference ID: 4754737 [Internet] [updated 2021 Mar; cited 2023 Jul 05]. Available from: www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/020839s074lbl.pdf.

2.-

Watras MM, Patel JP, Arya R. Traditional Anticoagulants and Hair Loss: A Role for Direct Oral Anticoagulants? A Review of the Literature. Drugs Real World Outcomes. 2016;3(1):1-6.

3.-

MedlinePlus [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US);2023. Clopidogrel; [updated 2020 Dec 15; cited 2023 Jul 05]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601040.html.

4.-

Iqbal AM, Lopez RA, Hai O. Antiplatelet Medications. [Updated 2022 Nov 7; cited 2023 Jul 05]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537062/.