PERSANTINE (DIPYRIDAMOLE)

Persantine Description

You may be advised by your doctor that you require a heart valve replacement due to damage or a severe narrowing and prescribed Persantine or generic Dipyridamole. This drug will be taken along another blood thinner in order to stop clots from forming and interfering with the new valve. Without taking meds post-operatively, you are at risk for a clot developing and causing a heart attack, stroke, or a pulmonary embolism that blocks the blood vessels in your lungs. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How Persantine Works

Persantine is an antiplatelet drug that will work to keep the blood vessels in your heart open by blocking the action of phosphodiesterase (PDE), the enzyme found in platelets. This enzyme breaks down a chemical called cyclic AMP (adenosine monophosphate) or cAMP. Taking Persantine will cause the levels of cAMP to rise and this action results in the inhibition of platelet function. Your dosage and length of treatment period will be decided by your doctor.

Conditions Treated by Persantine

There are several factors that can cause damage to one of your heart valves, including defects present at birth, severe infections, a build-up of cholesterol, and cancers. Your heart has 4 valves that are essential for the timing, pressure, and blood flow direction. Most valve replacements involve the mitral or aortic valve. The aortic valve transports blood from your heart, making it contract, while the mitral valve brings the blood back into your heart, causing it to expand. Damage to either of these valves involves an impaired blood flow.

Before You are Prescribed Persantine

Ask your doctor about any risks of taking Persantine if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Explain other medical conditions or allergies you have to your doctor and list any OTC or Rx drugs you currently take or use, including herbal and vitamin supplements. This will help determine if Persantine is the right medication for you.

Persantine Precautions and Recommendations

Until you know how Persantine will affect you, use caution around machinery and do not drive unless you are totally alert and do not feel dizzy or faint. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any meds without your doctor’s knowledge or this could change how some of your drugs work. Keep Persantine out of children’s reach and never share any meds with others.

Possible Side Effects of Persantine

• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach cramps
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Diarrhea