FDA Warns Against Using Plavix With Nexium Or Prilosec

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned patients against taking Nexium or Prilosec if they are already taking Plavix.

Plavix, a prescribed blood thinner that protects against heart attack and stroke.

FDA said that the two heart burn medication can reduce the protective blood-thinning effect of Plavix. It can be reduced nearly half the effect of drug Plavix.

FDA issued the warning after the data from a study conducted by Sanofi-aventis and Bristol Myers Squibb were submitted. The study was requested by FDA.

Reportedly, Nexium and Prilosec inhibit a liver enzyme that is involved in converting Plavix into active form.

FDA has yet to confirm if other drugs in the same class as Nexium and Prilosec, have an adverse effects with Plavix. The other drugs in the class include: Prevacid and Protonix.

FDA, said: “There are ongoing studies to look at those other drugs.” It has asked patients, who require acid reducing medication, to use traditional antacid as Mylanta, Maalox, Pepcid, Axid or Zantac.