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.