Stopping Plavix

• 1). Talk to your doctor. Bristol-Myers Squibb/Sanofi Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturer of Plavix, recommends discontinuing Plavix use at least five days prior to having surgery. Depending on your health and the operation that you are going to undergo, your doctor may recommend that you stop using the medication two weeks in advance. Your doctor will give you the recommendation that he feels most comfortable with in order to minimize any risks to your health.
  
  
• 2). Stop taking Plavix at the designated time (again, at least five days before surgery). According to an article by Ed Edelson, this reduces your risk of excessive bleeding, reduces the risk of requiring a second operation as a result of the bleeding, and reduces the length of time that you will need to spend in the hospital after your surgery.
  
  
• 3). Follow your doctor's recommendations. Your doctor may recommend that you begin taking Plavix on the first day after your surgery, or she may recommend waiting for a longer period of time. It's crucial to work with your doctor and follow her instructions to minimize any risks.