How does it work?

Ticlopidine belongs to a group of medicines called antiplatelets. It works by preventing blood cells called platelets from clumping together and starting off the clotting process, though it is not fully understood how it does this. It also prevents the binding of fibrinogen, a substance involved in blood clotting, to the platelets. Hence, the overall effect of ticlopidine is to reduce the likelihood of clots forming in the blood. Clots in the blood can cause a heart attack or stroke, therefore ticlopidine is used to prevent this in patients who are at risk, for example those who have previously had a stroke. It is also used in patients with intermittent claudication (sudden cramping pain in the muscles of the leg caused by limited blood supply), as clots in the blood would further reduce the blood supply.

What is it used for?

Prevention of blood clots in the vessels

Warning!

This medicine may rarely cause a decrease in the normal amounts of blood cells in the blood. For this reason, if you experience any unexplained bruising, purple spots, bleeding, sore throat, mouth ulcers, high temperature (fever), feeling tired or general illness, you should consult your doctor immediately so that blood tests can be carried out to check for this.

It is recommended that regular blood tests are performed to check levels of the blood components.

Use with caution in

Breastfeeding

Kidney disease

Liver disease

Pregnancy

Not to be used in

Active bleeding

Blood disorders

Inherited tendency to bleed (haemorrhagic diathesis)

Peptic ulcers

Recent surgery, bleeding or major injury

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

The safety of this medicine during pregnancy has not been established. The manufacturer therefore advises that it should be avoided during pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine passes into breast milk. It is recommended that mothers should avoid using this medicine while breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

Take this medication with or after food.

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