WARNING

Taking Ticlid (ticlopidine) carries certain risks, including:

• Increased Bleeding Risk: Ticlid is an antiplatelet medication that works by preventing blood clots. However, this also increases the risk of bleeding, which can range from mild (e.g., nosebleeds) to severe (e.g., gastrointestinal bleeding or bleeding in the brain). Individuals with a history of bleeding disorders or gastrointestinal ulcers may be at higher risk.
• Hematological Effects: Ticlid can affect blood cell counts, leading to conditions such as thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), leukopenia (low white blood cell count), or agranulocytosis (severe reduction in white blood cells). These conditions can increase the risk of infections and bleeding complications.
• Hepatic Effects: Rarely, Ticlid may cause liver damage, leading to symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), abdominal pain, or dark urine. Regular monitoring of liver function tests may be necessary during treatment with Ticlid.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience severe allergic reactions to Ticlid, characterized by symptoms such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat; difficulty breathing; or severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• Neurological Effects: Ticlid may rarely cause neurological side effects, including headache, dizziness, or confusion.
• Drug Interactions: Ticlid can interact with other medications, including anticoagulants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and certain antibiotics. These interactions can increase the risk of bleeding or reduce the effectiveness of Ticlid.

It’s important to weigh the potential risks and benefits of Ticlid with your healthcare provider and to follow their guidance and recommendations closely. Additionally, report any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking Ticlid promptly to your healthcare provider for evaluation and management.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Ticlid (generic name: ticlopidine) is a medication primarily prescribed to prevent strokes in people who have had a previous stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), or certain types of heart disease. It belongs to a class of drugs known as antiplatelet agents, which work by preventing blood clots from forming.

How should this medicine be used?

The usual dose of Ticlid is 250 milligrams (mg) twice daily, taken orally with food. It’s important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider, as well as any specific directions on the prescription label. It’s also essential to take Ticlid exactly as prescribed and not to adjust the dosage without consulting your healthcare provider.

Additionally, it’s important to note that Ticlid may interact with other medications, so it’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking before starting Ticlid. You should also inform your doctor if you have any history of bleeding disorders or if you are undergoing any surgical procedures, as Ticlid may increase the risk of bleeding.

If you miss a dose of Ticlid, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

As with any medication, it’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and to report any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking Ticlid.

Other uses for this medicine

Some off-label uses of Ticlid include:

• Coronary Artery Disease: Ticlid has been studied for its potential benefits in preventing blood clots in patients with coronary artery disease, particularly in those who have undergone procedures such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or angioplasty.
• Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): Ticlid may be used off-label to reduce the risk of blood clots in patients with peripheral arterial disease, a condition characterized by narrowed arteries in the legs, arms, stomach, or head.
• Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP): Ticlid has been investigated for its potential role in managing thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, a rare blood disorder characterized by clot formation in small blood vessels throughout the body.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to be followed while taking Ticlid include:

• Bleeding Risk: Ticlid increases the risk of bleeding, so it should be used with caution in patients with a history of bleeding disorders or gastrointestinal ulcers. It should be discontinued temporarily before surgical procedures to minimize the risk of excessive bleeding.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood counts (particularly platelet counts) and liver function tests may be necessary during treatment with Ticlid to detect any potential adverse effects.
• Drug Interactions: Ticlid can interact with other medications, including anticoagulants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and certain antibiotics. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potentially harmful interactions.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to Ticlid or its components. If you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Ticlid should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as its safety has not been established in these populations. Consult your healthcare provider before taking Ticlid if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance while taking Ticlid, and report any unusual symptoms or side effects promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions for Ticlid, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with its use. However, it’s generally recommended to follow a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while taking Ticlid. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it may increase the risk of bleeding and interact with the medication.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Ticlid, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Ticlid (ticlopidine) can cause various side effects, ranging from mild to severe. It’s essential to be aware of these potential side effects and to promptly report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider. Common side effects of Ticlid may include:

• Gastrointestinal Disturbances: This can include symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach upset.
• Bleeding: Ticlid increases the risk of bleeding, which can manifest as nosebleeds, easy bruising, or prolonged bleeding from cuts or wounds.
• Rash: Some individuals may experience a rash or itching while taking Ticlid.
• Hematological Effects: Ticlid can affect blood cell counts, leading to conditions such as thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), leukopenia (low white blood cell count), or agranulocytosis (severe reduction in white blood cells).
• Hepatic Effects: Rarely, Ticlid may cause liver damage, leading to symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), abdominal pain, or dark urine.
• Neurological Effects: Ticlid may rarely cause neurological side effects, including headache, dizziness, or confusion.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: In rare cases, individuals may experience severe allergic reactions to Ticlid, characterized by symptoms such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat; difficulty breathing; or severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.

It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and other side effects may occur. Additionally, individual responses to medications can vary, so not everyone will experience the same side effects. If you experience any concerning symptoms while taking Ticlid, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Ticlid:

• Storage:
  • Store Ticlid at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
  • Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
  • Do not store Ticlid in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink, where it can be exposed to moisture.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of expired or unused Ticlid properly according to local regulations or guidelines.
  • Do not flush Ticlid down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so by a healthcare professional or pharmacist.
  • Check with your pharmacist or local waste disposal authority for instructions on how to safely dispose of Ticlid.

In case of emergency/overdose

• If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, or loss of consciousness, seek immediate medical attention by calling your local emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room.
• Be prepared to provide information about the medication you have taken, including the name (ticlopidine), dosage strength, and the amount ingested.
• Do not attempt to treat an overdose of Ticlid at home without medical supervision.

What other information should I know?

• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and dosage recommendations carefully.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as Ticlid can interact with other medications.
• Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and evaluation of your response to Ticlid therapy.
• Report any unusual symptoms or side effects to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Do not stop taking Ticlid without consulting your healthcare provider, as sudden discontinuation may increase the risk of adverse events.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about Ticlid, you can use the medication safely and effectively as prescribed by your healthcare provider.