Drug Notes

Clopidogrel (By mouth)

Clopidogrel (kloe-PID-oh-grel)

Helps prevent stroke, heart attack, and other heart problems. This medicine is a platelet inhibitor.

Brand Name(s):

Plavix

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can affect how clopidogrel works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
  • Esomeprazole, omeprazole, repaglinide, or warfarin
  • Medicine to treat depression
  • NSAID pain or arthritis medicine (including celecoxib, diclofenac, ibuprofen, or naproxen)

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have bleeding problems, stomach ulcer or bleeding, a recent stroke, or have a history of bleeding problems.
• This medicine can cause you to bleed and bruise more easily. Take precautions to avoid injury. Brush and floss your teeth gently, do not play rough sports, and be careful with sharp objects. Severe bleeding can be life-threatening.
• This medicine may cause a rare but serious blood clotting condition called thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura.
• Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine. Tell your doctor if you plan to have surgery or a dental procedure.
• Do not stop using this medicine suddenly. Your doctor will need to slowly decrease your dose before you stop it completely.
• Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Bloody or black, tarry stools
• Nosebleeds
• Pinpoint red or purple spots on your skin or in your mouth
• Problems with vision, speech, or walking
• Red or dark brown urine
• Seizures
• Severe stomach pain
• Trouble breathing, tiredness, fast heartbeat, yellow skin or eyes
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness
• Vomiting of blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017