Persantin stops platelets (substances in your blood necessary for blood clotting) from sticking together or attaching to prosthetic heart valve surfaces.

Persantin is used to prevent the formation of blood clots following heart valve replacement surgery.

Persantin is also prescribed in combination with other drugs, such as aspirin, to reduce the damage from a heart attack and prevent a recurrence, to treat angina, and to prevent complications during heart bypass surgery. Persantin is used in combination with

Persantin contains the active ingredient dipyridamole, which is a type of medicine known as an anti-platelet agent. Persantin prevents blood cells called platelets from clumping together inside the blood vessels, and is sometimes referred to as a \\\'blood thinner\\\'. Persantin also dilates the blood vessels.

Platelets are the blood cells that start off the process of blood clotting. Blood clots normally only form to stop bleeding that has occurred as a result of injury to the tissues. The process is complicated and begins when platelets

Persantin must be taken exactly as your doctor prescribes, at regularly scheduled times.

It is best to take Persantin on an empty stomach, with a full glass of water. However, if this upsets your stomach, you can take Persantin with food or milk.

Do not change from one brand of Persantin to another without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Products manufactured by different companies may not be equally effective.

If you miss a Persantin dose
Take Persantin

If Persantin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Persantin with the following:

Aspirin
Blood thinners such as Coumadin
Indomethacin (Indocin)
Ticlopidine (Ticlid)
Valproic acid (Depakene)

Most important fact about Persantin
Persantin is sometimes used with aspirin to provide better protection against the formation of blood clots. However, the risk of bleeding may also be increased. To reduce this risk, take only the amount of aspirin prescribed by the same doctor who directed you to take Persantin.

If you need a medication for pain or a fever, do not take extra aspirin without first consulting your doctor.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Persantin is unlikely to harm an unborn

Side effects of Persantin cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Persantin .

More common side effects of Persantin may include:
Abdominal distress, dizziness.

Less common or rare side effects of Persantin may include:
Angina pectoris (crushing chest pain), burning or tingling sensation, diarrhea, fatigue, feeling flushed, gallstones, hair loss, headache, itching,