Calcium Channel Blockers Don't Mix with Plavix

A new study says calcium channel blocker drugs, which are widely prescribed for coronary conditions, might reduce the effect of Plavix.  Calcium channel blockers are commonly prescribed for high blood pressure and angina.  Plavix is a drug prescribed to prevent clots in the arteries.  In particular, Plavix (clopidogrel) is recommended for anyone having a stent implanted, to reduce the incidence of thrombosis, which is blockage of the reopened artery.  This study was published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

According to the study, calcium channel blockers appear to inactivate an enzyme necessary for Plavix to work.  They studied 200 people who were taking Plavix after artery-opening procedures and stent placement

The concern is that people who have stents are taking Plavix and they are often taking calcium channel blockers for other conditions.  You must be sure to avoid adverse drug interactions and you should avoid taking these drugs together.  There are alternatives to calcium channel blockers, such as beta blockers and ACE inhibitors.

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