About Joshua Cappuccilli Expertise I can answer most questions involving medication use, side effects, adverse effects, interactions and how drugs relate to specific disease states. Noone can answer all questions; I will respond as such if I cannot provide an answer. I will provide resources / references for the information that I use to formulate the answer given.
Experience I am a PharmD with my degree from the University of FLorida - currently I am preparing to take the state boards in Florida.
Organizations California Phamacist Association
American Pharmacy Assocaition
Education/Credentials BA University of South Florida
PharmD University of Florida
Question I have been told that I have to take Plavix, and cannot afford it. I see that Canadadrugs.com has a generic which is made by Apotex.
My doctor said there is no generic. Can you sort this out for me?
Answer There was a generic available in the US that is currently tied up in litigation and not available for purchase.
The canadian company might sell you generic plavix (clopidogrel) but you could also get tic-tacs or aspirin shaped like plavix / clopidogrel. The packages are often perfectly replicated as well so there is no way to tell you are getting something other that you are expecting until you have a stroke as a result.
If you cannot afford the plavix explain that to your doctor - he will likely instruct you to take aspirin but it is NOT as effective as plavix - clopidogrel is the best agent available for this type of treatment.
To be perfectly clear - PLAVIX is the best therapy right now. Aspirin is dirt cheap and less effective - if there is a way you can buy food and the plavix you should consider it.
There are programs for people who have a challenge paying for drugs like this - many through the manufacturer. Ask your local pharmacist about this type of assistance.
