About Plavix
Plavix is a prescription drug that prevents clots from forming in blood, thus helping to prevent clot-related medical conditions and events, such as stroke and heart attack. Take in conjunction with PPI drugs such as Nexium, Plavix may contribute to low B12 levels.
Plavix alone and B12
Plavix itself does not have any interactions with vitamin B12, according to manufacturer . In the prescribing information provided to physicians by Bristol-Myers Squibb, the only drugs that may have slight interactions with Plavix are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as iboprofen; and Wayfarin, which may lead to a higher risk of bleeding.
Plavix and PPI use
Many physicians prescribe Plavix with PPI medications, which are used to treat GERD and related conditions of the digestive system. The evidence for better results for patients taking Plavix and PPIs is mixed, with some studies indicating that the dual therapy is effective and others finding no added value to adding PPIs to Plavix.
PPIs and B12
However, PPIs can cause low B12 levels. This is because PPIs reduce gastric acids that would normally break down B12 for proper absorption by the body. When the gastric acid is reduced, B12 is not absorbed fully and instead passes through the body. Patients on PPIs are usually instructed by their doctors to take a vitamin supplement including B12 or to get regular B12 shots while they are on PPIs.
Tags: Bristol-Myers Squibb, interactions with, Plavix PPIs