clopidogrel
Last reviewed 04/2021
Clopidogrel is an anti-platelet drug, of the thienopyridine class, which is licensed for the secondary prophylaxis of atherosclerotic complications in patients with:
- ischaemic heart disease
- cerebrovascular disease
- peripheral vascular disease
The dose is 75 mg per day.
The principal side-effect is haemorrhage, including:
- gastrointestinal
- intracranial
There may be gastrointestinal upset.
Maximal inhibition of platelet aggregation is achieved after 4-7 days with clopidogrel 75 mg per day (1).
The summary of product characteristics should be consulted before prescribing this drug.
Reference:
- Solet D et al. The role of adenosine 5'-diphosphate receptor blockade in patients with cardiovascular disease. Am J Med 2001;111:45-53.
- Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin 1999; 37 (8): 59-61.
- Factfile 12/98. Antithrombotic drugs. British Heart Foundation.
MATCH (Management of ATherothrombosis with Clopidogrel in High-risk patients) trial
COMMIT (Clopidogrel and Metoprolol in Myocardial Infarction Trial)
ACTIVE W (clopidogrel plus aspirin versus anticoagulation in atrial fibrillation)
risk of bleeding with aspirin and clopidogrel
NICE guidance - clopidogrel following myocardial infarction (MI)
interaction between clopidogrel and proton pump inhibitors (PPI )