Clopidogrel

What Is This Drug?

Clopidogrel is an oral antiplatelet medication widely used to help manage conditions such as coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, and peripheral vascular disease. Its main purpose is to reduce the risk of harmful blood clots and support healthy blood flow, lowering the chances of heart attacks and strokes.

Classification and How Clopidogrel Works

Clopidogrel belongs to the class of antiplatelet agents. It works by decreasing the ability of platelets to stick together, which reduces the formation of clots inside the blood vessels. This action helps protect individuals at risk of cardiovascular events.

Storage Instructions

Store Clopidogrel:

• Away from children

• In a cool, dry, and dark environment

• Inside its original packaging

Proper storage preserves its effectiveness.

How to Take Clopidogrel

• Take Clopidogrel exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

• Do not take more or less than recommended.

• It works best when taken regularly at the same time each day.

• Swallow the tablet with a full glass of water, with or without food.

• Your doctor may recommend routine blood tests during treatment.

• Always inform medical staff before any surgery or dental procedure that you are taking Clopidogrel.

Typical Dosage

A commonly prescribed dose is 75 mg once daily, though your doctor may adjust the amount depending on your medical needs.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose of Clopidogrel, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Missed Dose

• Take it as soon as you remember.

• Skip it if your next dose is near.

• Never double the dose to compensate for a missed one.

Warnings and Precautions

Clopidogrel increases the risk of bleeding. You may notice:

• Easy bruising

• Nosebleeds

• Bleeding from shaving or brushing your teeth

Important precautions:

• Inform your surgeon or dentist before any procedure.

• Do not stop using Clopidogrel without medical guidance.

• Contact your doctor for:

  • Persistent bleeding

  • Black or bloody stools

  • Vomiting blood

  • Signs of internal bleeding

Avoid combining Clopidogrel with other medications without medical approval.

Possible Side Effects

Mild Effects

• Itching

• Mild headaches

Serious Effects (Seek Medical Attention Immediately)

• Unusual bleeding or bruising

• Red or purple spots under the skin

• Pale skin or extreme tiredness

• Vision, speech, or balance changes

• Fever or yellowing of the skin

• Sudden severe headache

• Chest pain

• Nausea, sweating

• Coughing up blood

• Bloody or tarry stools

• Nosebleeds that do not stop

Prevention of Cardiovascular Events

Clopidogrel is often prescribed to reduce the risk of:

• Heart attacks

• Strokes

• Blood clot–related complications

It supports long-term cardiovascular protection when used consistently as part of a doctor-supervised treatment plan.

When Clopidogrel Should Not Be Used

Do not take Clopidogrel if:

• You have active bleeding, such as from ulcers or internal bleeding

• You have a known allergy to Clopidogrel or similar medications

Inform your doctor of all chronic conditions before starting treatment.

How Long Should You Take Clopidogrel?

Take Clopidogrel for the full duration prescribed. Stopping early may increase your risk of serious cardiovascular events. Always consult your doctor before discontinuing.