Clopidogrel

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Clopiwin 75, Closolve, Mistro, Plagrol, Plavix

Popular combinations:

Clopiwin plus

Drug group:

Antiplatelet drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Clopidogrel is used to prevent the formation of blood clots in patients:

• With a tendency to form clots in the arteries and heart
• Who have had a stroke or heart attack
• With metal stents in their coronary arteries

It may be used alone or in combination with aspirin.

How does it work?

Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet drug - it reduces the stickiness of platelets thereby reducing the clotting of blood.

How should it be used?

• Report to your doctor if you experience any unusual bleeding
• If you require dental treatment, tell your dentist that you are taking clopidogrel as you are more likely to bleed during procedures

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

75mg taken once daily (up to 300mg as initial dose in hospital)

How quickly will it start to work?

Within 1 hour.

How long will the effects last?

Antiplatelet effect may last up to 1 week.

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor.

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No special problems.

What are the possible side effects?

Side effects with clopidogrel are common and are usually associated with bleeding.

The following have been reported:

• More common: bruising, bleeding (nosebleeds, blood in the urine/faeces), diarrhoea, abdominal pain
• Less common: nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, constipation
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: any unusual bleeding or bruising, rash/itching, sore throat, fever

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver/kidney problems, history of peptic ulcers, bleeding disorders
• Other medicines: Aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), anticoagulant drugs (eg. warfarin), proton pump inhibitors
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety in pregnancy not established, may affect the breastfed baby
• Children: Not recommended
• Over 60: No special problems
• Driving and hazardous work: No special problems
• Alcohol: Avoid, increased risk of bleeding from the stomach
• Surgery and general anaesthetics: The drug may need to be stopped a week before surgery