About Clopidogrel

Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet medicine. It prevents platelets (a type of blood cell) from sticking together and forming a dangerous blood clot.

Taking clopidogrel helps prevent blood clots if you have an increased risk of having them.

Your risk is higher if you have or have had:

• a heart attack
• unstable angina
• a stroke or "mini-stroke" (transient ischaemic attack or TIA)
• peripheral arterial disease
• atrial fibrillation
• an operation on your heart or blood vessels, such as a coronary stent insertion

Clopidogrel is only available on prescription. It comes as tablets.

Key facts

• You'll usually take clopidogrel once a day.
• Your doctor may prescribe clopidogrel with or instead of low-dose aspirin.
• The main side effect of clopidogrel is bleeding more easily than normal. You may have signs such as nosebleeds, heavier periods, bleeding gums or bruising.
• You can drink alcohol with clopidogrel. But do not drink too much while taking this medicine. It can irritate your stomach.
• Do not drink grapefruit juice while taking clopidogrel, as it stops the medicine from working as well.
• You may need to stop taking clopidogrel for a short time before having surgery or dental treatment, but check with your doctor or dentist first.

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