Dipyridamole is used to reduce risk of stroke. Learn how to use the medication, its common side effects, special precautions to watch out for, and more.

What is this medication for?

Dipyridamole belongs to a class of medications called antiplatelets. Antiplatelets are used to prevent blood clots from forming by making the blood less “sticky”. 

Dipyridamole is often used together with aspirin to reduce the risk of stroke. It may also be used to reduce the risk of blood clots in people who have had an artificial heart valve replacement.  

How should I take or use this medication?

• Do not stop taking your medication without checking with your healthcare professional.
• This medicine should be taken half to one hour before food, on an empty stomach. 

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose. 

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if: 

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• You have a blood clotting disorder. 
• You have a history of stomach or intestinal ulcers or bleeds, bleeding in the brain or other bleeding problems. 
• You are planned for any medical procedures, surgeries or dental procedures as this medication may need to be stopped temporarily before the procedure to prevent too much bleeding.
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies. 

What are some common side effects of this medication?

• Dizziness
  • This may occur especially when you get up quickly from lying or sitting down. Getting up slowly or changing posture slowly may help. Take a rest by sitting or lying down if you feel dizzy.
• Mild bleeding such as:
  • Unexplained nosebleed 
  • Bleeding from gums when brushing teeth. Use a soft bristle toothbrush to avoid gum bleeds. 
  • Bleeding from small cuts for 10-15 minutes even as you apply pressure on the wound. Check with your doctor if the bleeding does not stop within 15 minutes or if you feel unwell. 
  • Menstrual bleeding that is heavier than normal. However, heavy menstrual bleeding can also happen for other reasons. Do check with your doctor if you feel unwell. 
• Headache
  • This is usually temporary in nature. 
• Flushing or redness of the skin 
• Diarrhea, vomiting and stomach upset. 

Inform your healthcare professional if these side-effects do not go away or are bothersome to you.

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

Patients taking Dipyridamole may have an increased risk of bleeding. If you experience any serious bleeding, you should stop your medication and inform your healthcare professional immediately. Serious bleeding may include one or more of the following: 

• Blood in the urine 
• Black and sticky stools (if you are not using iron supplements at the same time)
• Unexplained bruises 
• Coughing up blood or vomit similar to that of coffee grounds     
• Sudden severe headache with nausea, fainting or passing out and/or difficulty speaking

Dipyridamole may also cause allergic reactions. The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following: 

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use this medication?

This medication may interact with other medications.

Consult your healthcare professional if you are unsure whether your existing medications can be taken together with Dipyridamole.

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children. 

How do I throw away this medication safely?

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin. 

Disclaimer

Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last updated on April 2025