Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 7, 2022.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Persantine
Available Dosage Forms:
- Tablet
- Solution
Therapeutic Class: Platelet Aggregation Inhibitor
Pharmacologic Class: Phosphodiesterase Inhibitor
Uses for dipyridamole
Dipyridamole is used to lessen the chance of stroke or other serious medical problems that may occur when a blood vessel is blocked by blood clots. It is given only when there is a larger-than-usual chance that these problems may occur. For example, it is given to people who have had diseased heart valves replaced by mechanical valves, because dangerous blood clots are especially likely to occur in these patients. Dipyridamole works by helping to prevent dangerous blood clots from forming.
Dipyridamole may also be used for other heart and blood conditions as determined by your doctor.
Dipyridamole is also sometimes used as part of a medical test that shows how well blood is flowing to your heart. For information on this use of dipyridamole, see Dipyridamole—Diagnostic (Systemic).
Dipyridamole is available only with your doctor's prescription.
Before using dipyridamole
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For dipyridamole, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to dipyridamole or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Dipyridamole has been tested only in adults and in children older than 12 years of age. There is no specific information comparing use of dipyridamole in children younger than 12 years of age with use in other age groups.
Geriatric
Dipyridamole has not been studied specifically in older people taking the medicine regularly to prevent blood clots from forming. Although there is no specific information comparing this use of dipyridamole in the elderly with use...
