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Common brand name: Persantine
Why is this drug prescribed?
Dipyridamole is used with other medicines to prevent blood clots and
problems such as stroke.
How and when should dipyridamole be used?
Dipyridamole comes in tablets and is usually taken three or four times a
day. Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water, coffee, tea, milk, or
juice. Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose. Follow
these instructions carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any
part you do not understand. Dipyridamole must be taken regularly to be
effective. A clinical response might require two to three months of continuous therapy,
so follow the schedule prescribed by your doctor. Continue to take dipyridamole
even if you feel well. NEVER stop taking dipyridamole without talking to your
doctor.
Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
What special instructions should I follow while using this drug?
Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor:
- If you are allergic to dipyridamole or any other drugs
- What vitamins, herbals, dietary supplements, and other prescription and
non-prescription (over-the-counter) drugs you are taking.
- If you have or have ever had low blood pressure.
- If you are pregnant, are trying to become pregnant, become pregnant while
taking this medicine, or are breastfeeding
Your doctor might give you other instructions, as well.
- If your doctor told you to take aspirin with this medicine, take ONLY
the amount of aspirin prescribed.
- Take medicine one hour before or two hours after meals.
- Tell your doctor or dentist if you are taking dipyridamole if you are
having surgery, including dental surgery.
- Watch for signs of abnormal bleeding if you are taking persantine for
long-term therapy. Report any signs or symptoms to your doctor.
- Keep all appointments with your doctor so your response to the drug can be
monitored.
- Be sure you always have enough of this medicine. Check your supply
before vacations and other occasions.
What should I do if I forget to take a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost
time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing
schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.
What are the common side effects? What can I do about them?
Although side effects from dipyridamole are not common, they can occur. Some
side effects include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
Stand up slowly from a sitting or lying position to decrease dizziness.
- Flushing, weakness, or fainting
Contact your doctor if these symptoms are persistent or severe.
- Nausea, vomiting, or upset stomach
Eat a light snack when you take the medication.
- Skin rash
Contact your doctor.
When should I call my doctor?
Call your doctor right away if you:
- Develop a skin rash
- Experience any unusual bleeding or bruising, chest pain, or yellowing of
the skin or eyes
- Experience persistent or severe side effects
- Have a fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher
- Have any other symptoms that cause concern
What storage conditions are necessary for this drug?
- Keep dipyridamole in the container it came in, tightly closed.
- Store tablets at room temperature and away from heat and moisture (not in
bathroom).
- Keep dipyridamole out of the reach of children.
- Never share your medicine with anyone.
- Never take outdated medicine. Some prescription labels list
an expiration date. If such a date is not on your medicine label or if you
are unsure how old a drug is, call your pharmacy.
This handout summarizes information to help you understand
and safely take your medicine. Other information--not included in this
handout--might be important for you to know because of your unique health status.
Ask your doctor and/or pharmacist for more information on the medicines
prescribed for you and your unique health care needs.
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