Generic
Dipyridamole
2 brands available in the market
At a glance
Dipyridamole is an antiplatelet medication used for stroke prevention and prevention of blood clotting after heart valve replacement.
Description
Dipyridamole causes an accumulation of adenosine, adenine nucleotides and cAMP by inhibiting the activity of adenosine deaminase and phosphodiesterase thus inhibiting platelet aggregation and may cause vasodilation.
Indications
- Secondary prevention of ischaemic stroke and transient ischaemic attacks
- Prophylaxis of thromboembolism associated with prosthetic heart valves
Therapeutic class
Anti-platelet drugs
Pharmacological class
Antiplatelet
Pharmacology
Dipyridamole causes an accumulation of adenosine, adenine nucleotides and cAMP by inhibiting the activity of adenosine deaminase and phosphodiesterase thus inhibiting platelet aggregation and may cause vasodilation.
Mechanism of action
Dipyridamole inhibits adenosine deaminase and phosphodiesterase, preventing platelet aggregation and reducing blood clot formation.
Dosage
Adult: 75-100 mg every 6 hours (as adjunct to warfarin).
Child: 3-6 mg/kg/day divided every 6-8 hours.
Administration
Take on an empty stomach. Swallow the tablet whole, do not chew, crush or break.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose of Dipyridamole, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common: Headache, flushing, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, decreased blood pressure.
Other: Thrombocytopenia, angioedema, angina pectoris, tachycardia, hypotension, bronchospasm, rash, urticaria, myalgia, post-procedural hemorrhage.
Precautions & warnings
May affect driving ability (drowsiness, dizziness). Increased bleeding risk; be careful while shaving, cutting nails, or using sharp objects. May need to temporarily stop before surgery or dental treatment. Caution in pregnancy and lactation.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity; peptic ulcer.
Drug interactions
Aminophylline: May reverse vasodilation effect.
Antacids: Reduced efficacy.
Adenosine: Increased cardiotoxic effects.
Potentially Fatal: Potentiates effects of oral anticoagulants and antiarrhythmic agents.
Anticoagulants/aspirin: Additive effects.
Food interactions
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Dipyridamole.
Use in pregnancy
Generally considered safe during pregnancy (animal studies show low or no adverse effects; limited human studies).
Pregnancy Category: B — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Probably safe during breastfeeding; limited human data suggests no significant risk to the baby.
Pediatric use
Children: 3-6 mg/kg/day divided every 6-8 hours.
Geriatric use
No specific dosage adjustment is necessary for elderly patients.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal impairment: Probably safe; dose adjustment may not be needed.
Hepatic impairment: Probably safe; dose adjustment may not be needed.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause feeling warm, flushes, sweating, accelerated pulse, restlessness, weakness, dizziness, drop in blood pressure, and anginal complaints.
Storage conditions
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture.
Chemical structure
Dipyridamole