Plavix is a commonly used drug for recent heart attack and stroke victims. It prevents platelets from sticking together in the blood and forming clots, thereby reducing the risk of future heart attacks and strokes. As with many prescription medications, however, it has many potentially harmful side effects. Therefore, many patients choose the use of fish oil as an alternative to Plavix.
Plavix Side Effects
Although Plavix has been prescribed for more than 10 years to nearly 70 million patients, it has not been without risk. There are a number of undesirable side effects associated with daily use of this drug. Along with increased risk of bleeding, Plavix can also cause diarrhea, severe itching, and rash. A less common, though more serious, side effect of Plavix is the development of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, a disorder of the blood coagulation system, which can be life-threatening and usually occurs within the first two weeks of use. All of these potential side effects have led many patients to consider alternative treatment, such as fish oil.
The Fish Oil Alternative
Fish oil is a highly effective alternative to Plavix. Due to the high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids contained in fish oil, it has long been known to provide exceptional health benefits when taken regularly. These polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids are what doctors call "good fats" and are actually healthy for your body. They help to prevent future heart attacks and strokes by improving overall heart function as well as helping to prevent blood clots. In fact, according to a 2005 study by Dr. Fernando Holguin of the Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia, cardiac patients experienced improved heart function within two weeks of use, thereby further supporting the use of fish oil as an alternative to Plavix.
Dosage Information
The recommended dosage of fish oil to prevent heart attack and stroke is one gram, or 1000 mg, per day. This can either be accomplished by eating one or more servings of fresh fish or it can be taken in capsule form instead. Always consult your doctor before you begin taking a new dietary supplement and be sure to seek medical advice if you experience any side effects.
Tags: alternative Plavix, side effects, attack stroke, attacks strokes, fatty acids, fish alternative, Fish Alternative