Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

DIPYRIDAMOLE - ORAL

(dye-peer-ID-ah-mole)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Persantine

Uses

Dipyridamole keeps blood flowing smoothly by preventing blood cells from clumping together (coagulating). It is used after heart valve replacement. It is taken in combination with a "blood thinner" such as warfarin.

OTHER

Uses

This medication may also be used in combination with drugs such as aspirin to prevent blood clotting caused by certain heart conditions.

How To Use

This medication is best taken on an empty stomach but may be taken with meals. Take this exactly as prescribed. Try to take this medication at the same time each day so you remember to take it. Do not stop taking this without your doctor's approval.

Side Effects

Loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea, headache or dizziness may occur at first as your body adjusts to the medication. If these effects persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor promptly if the following occur: unusual bleeding or bruising, fainting, skin rash, yellowing eyes/skin. Seek immediate medical attention if the following occur: trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor of all other illnesses, especially if you have: hypotension, allergies to this medication. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before taking this medication. This drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: anticoagulants ("blood thinners"), aspirin, valproic acid. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

Be sure to inform your dentist and doctors that you are taking this medication. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered unless the next scheduled dose is within 4 hours. If so, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).