Drug Guide
Ticlopidine Hydrochloride
Classification
Therapeutic: Antiplatelet agent
Pharmacological: Thienopyridine derivative
FDA Approved Indications
- Prevention of stroke in patients at risk for arterial thrombotic events
Mechanism of Action
Ticlopidine inhibits ADP-induced platelet aggregation by irreversibly blocking the P2Y12 receptor on platelets, thereby reducing thrombus formation.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Initial dose: 250 mg twice daily. Dose may be adjusted based on response and tolerability.
Pediatric: Not approved for pediatric use.
Geriatric: Use with caution; consider age-related renal and hepatic function.
Renal Impairment: Adjust dosage based on renal function.
Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; hepatic function should be monitored.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Well absorbed orally.
Distribution: Widely distributed to body tissues.
Metabolism: Extensively metabolized in the liver via CYP450 enzymes.
Excretion: Primarily excreted in the urine and feces.
Half Life: Approximately 4-6 hours, but platelet inhibition lasts for life of platelet (~7-10 days).
Contraindications
- Active pathological bleeding (e.g., peptic ulcer, intracranial hemorrhage)
Precautions
- Use cautiously in patients with bleeding disorders, hepatic impairment, or recent surgery.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Neutropenia (Less common)
- Diarrhea (Common)
- Dizziness (Common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Thrombocytopenia or Bleeding (Rare but serious)
- Aplastic anemia (Very rare)
- Liver toxicity (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- Warfarin, other anticoagulants
- NSAIDs, aspirin
Drug-Food Interactions
- Alcohol may increase bleeding risk
Drug-Herb Interactions
- Ginger, ginkgo biloba, which may increase bleeding
Nursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor signs of bleeding, complete blood counts, liver function tests.
Diagnoses:
- Risk for bleeding
Implementation: Administer with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset. Monitor bleeding parameters.
Evaluation: Assess for signs of bleeding or adverse hematologic effects.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Report signs of bleeding (bruising, bleeding gums, blood in stool or urine).
- Inform about increased bleeding risk with trauma or surgery.
- Avoid alcohol and NSAIDs unless directed by healthcare provider.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- Potential for neutropenia and aplastic anemia, which may be sudden and severe.
Genetic Factors: CYP2C19 metabolism may affect individual responses.
Lab Test Interference: May cause abnormalities in blood counts, liver function tests.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Excessive bleeding, bruising, gastrointestinal bleeding.
Treatment: Discontinue medication, provide supportive care, and treat bleeding symptoms. No specific antidote.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Stability: Stable for 2 years when stored properly.