Clopidogrel
Pronunciation: (PLAV-iks) (kloh-PID-oh-grel).
- Generic name
- clopidogrel
- Brand names
- Clopivas, Clopidogrel Accord, Deplatt, Iscover, Grepid, CoPlavix
- Drug class
- Antiplatelet agent (P2Y12 platelet inhibitor)
Availability and supply rules vary by country
Trade names by country: United States · Canada
Australia: · Full directory
What clopidogrel is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how clopidogrel works
Clopidogrel is a prodrug that requires hepatic activation. Its active metabolite irreversibly inhibits the P2Y12 subtype of ADP receptors on the platelet surface, preventing ADP-mediated activation of the glycoprotein GPIIb/IIIa complex. This inhibition reduces platelet aggregation and thrombus formation. (1)
What clopidogrel is used for
Prevention of atherothrombotic events in patients with recent myocardial infarction (MI)
Prevention of atherothrombotic events in patients with recent myocardial infarction (MI) (1)
Prevention of atherothrombotic events in patients with recent stroke
Prevention of atherothrombotic events in patients with recent stroke (1)
Prevention of atherothrombotic events in patients with established peripheral arterial disease (PAD)
Prevention of atherothrombotic events in patients with established peripheral arterial disease (PAD) (1)
Prevention of atherothrombotic events in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) (unstable angina or non-ST-elevation MI), including those managed medically and those managed with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with or without stent placement
Prevention of atherothrombotic events in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) (unstable angina or non-ST-elevation MI), including those managed medically and those managed with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with or without stent placement (1)
Prevention of atherothrombotic and thromboembolic events in patients with atrial fibrillation who are unable to take oral anticoagulants and have at least one risk factor for vascular events
Prevention of atherothrombotic and thromboembolic events in patients with atrial fibrillation who are unable to take oral anticoagulants and have at least one risk factor for vascular events (1)
Before taking clopidogrel
Do not take / not appropriate for
- Contraindicated in patients with active pathological bleeding (e.g., peptic ulcer, intracranial hemorrhage) and those with hypersensitivity to clopidogrel. (Contraindication) (1)
Tell your clinician about
(1)How to take clopidogrel
- General Instructions: Take Plavix exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily. It can be taken with or without food.. Adult Dosing: The typical adult dose is 75 mg once daily. In some cases, a loading dose of 300 mg may be given initially, especially after certain heart procedures.. Pediatric Dosing: The safety and efficacy of clopidogrel in children have not been established. Use in pediatric patients is not routinely recommended.. Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablet.. When To Stop: Do not stop taking Plavix without your doctor’s advice, as stopping suddenly can increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke.. Storage: Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician. (1)
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
Overdose
In case of overdose, seek emergency medical attention. Overdose may increase the risk of bleeding. Supportive care and monitoring for bleeding are recommended; there is no specific antidote. (1)
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Bleeding
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Bruising
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Nosebleeds
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Gastrointestinal upset
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Rash
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP)
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Intracranial hemorrhage
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Serious warnings
FDA BOXED WARNING — DIMINISHED ANTIPLATELET EFFECT IN PATIENTS WITH IMPAIRED CYP2C19 FUNCTION — serious
Symptoms: FDA BOXED WARNING — DIMINISHED ANTIPLATELET EFFECT IN PATIENTS WITH IMPAIRED CYP2C19 FUNCTION: Clopidogrel (Plavix) is a prodrug and must be converted to its active form by the liver's CYP2C19 enzyme. At recommended doses, Plavix forms less active metabolite and has a reduced antiplatelet effect in people who are homozygous for nonfunctional CYP2C19 alleles ('poor metabolizers') — roughly 2% of white, 4% of Black, and 14% of Chinese people. Poor metabolizers treated with Plavix at recommended doses exhibit higher cardiovascular event rates after a heart attack than patients with normal CYP2C19 function. Tests are available to identify a patient's CYP2C19 genotype; the prescriber may consider an alternative treatment or dosing strategy for confirmed poor metabolizers.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (1)
May increase risk of serious bleeding, including gastrointestinal and intracranial bleeding — serious
Symptoms: May increase risk of serious bleeding, including gastrointestinal and intracranial bleeding. Not recommended for use in patients with active bleeding or severe liver impairment. May cause thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), a rare but serious condition. Use with caution in patients with a history of bleeding disorders. Inform all healthcare providers and dentists before any procedure that you are taking clopidogrel.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (1)
Contraindications recorded in the clinician database — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications recorded in the clinician database: Contraindicated in patients with active pathological bleeding (e.g., peptic ulcer, intracranial hemorrhage) and those with hypersensitivity to clopidogrel. Use with caution in patients with increased bleeding risk, severe hepatic impairment, or a history of TTP.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (1)
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded interactions | Clopidogrel may interact with other medications that affect blood clotting, such as warfarin, aspirin, NSAIDs, and certain antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs). Some drugs, like omeprazole and esomeprazole, can reduce the effectiveness of clopidogrel. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking. | (1) |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Pregnancy
The FDA-approved Plavix prescribing information states available data have not identified a drug-associated risk of major birth defects or miscarriage; therapy should not be withheld because of fetal concerns during a medical emergency such as a heart attack or stroke. Use in pregnancy is otherwise a decision for the clinician managing the pregnancy. (1)
Breastfeeding
The FDA-approved Plavix prescribing information notes that in rat studies, clopidogrel and/or its metabolites are present in milk; human data are not available. The decision to breastfeed during treatment should weigh the developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding against the mother's clinical need for clopidogrel and any potential risk to the infant, in discussion with the prescribing clinician. (1)
Children
Frequency: Not applicable. Weight Based: Not recommended for pediatric use. Max Daily Dose: Not applicable. Max Single Dose: Not applicable. Age Restrictions: Safety not established in children (1)
Renal_impairment
Renal impairment: the FDA-approved label states experience is limited in patients with severe and moderate renal impairment, but does not give a specific dose-adjustment table. Hepatic impairment: the same label states no dosage adjustment is necessary in hepatic impairment, though clopidogrel should not be used in severe hepatic impairment because of bleeding risk (see serious warnings) and experience with moderate hepatic disease that may cause bleeding diatheses is limited. (1)
Hepatic_impairment
Renal impairment: the FDA-approved label states experience is limited in patients with severe and moderate renal impairment, but does not give a specific dose-adjustment table. Hepatic impairment: the same label states no dosage adjustment is necessary in hepatic impairment, though clopidogrel should not be used in severe hepatic impairment because of bleeding risk (see serious warnings) and experience with moderate hepatic disease that may cause bleeding diatheses is limited. (1)
Monitoring
(1)Storage
The FDA-approved Plavix prescribing information specifies storage at 25°C (77°F), with excursions permitted between 15-30°C (59-86°F).
Study the drug class: Antiplatelet agents
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
General
Indication: Prevention of atherothrombotic events in patients with recent myocardial infarction (MI)
Dose summary: Loading dose of 300 mg orally once, followed by a maintenance dose of 75 mg orally once daily.
Renal context: The FDA-approved label states experience is limited in patients with severe and moderate renal impairment, but gives no specific numeric renal dose adjustment. For hepatic impairment, the label states no dosage adjustment is necessary, though clopidogrel should not be used in severe hepatic impairment because of bleeding risk, and experience in moderate hepatic disease that may cause bleeding diatheses is limited. (1)
Frequently asked questions
How long do I need to take Plavix after a stent procedure?
The duration depends on your specific condition and the type of stent used. Most patients take Plavix for at least 6 to 12 months after a stent, but your doctor will determine the best duration for you.
Can I take ibuprofen or aspirin with Plavix?
You should not take ibuprofen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs with Plavix unless your doctor specifically tells you to, as this combination increases your risk of bleeding.
What should I do if I need surgery while on Plavix?
Inform your surgeon and all healthcare providers that you are taking Plavix. Your doctor may advise you to stop Plavix several days before surgery to reduce bleeding risk, but do not stop without medical advice.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Plavix?
Alcohol can increase your risk of stomach bleeding when combined with Plavix. It is best to limit or avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
What foods should I avoid while taking Plavix?
There are no specific foods you must avoid, but maintain a balanced diet and avoid excessive alcohol. Always check with your doctor about any dietary restrictions.
Can Plavix cause low platelet counts?
Yes, though rare, Plavix can cause a serious condition called thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), which involves low platelet counts. Seek medical attention if you notice unexplained bruising, petechiae, or other bleeding symptoms.
What happens if I stop taking Plavix suddenly?
Stopping Plavix suddenly can increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your medication.
What happens if I take too much Plavix (clopidogrel)?
Taking too much Plavix (clopidogrel) can significantly increase the risk of bleeding, potentially leading to severe and life-threatening hemorrhages. Symptoms may include unusual bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts, nosebleeds, or blood in urine or stools. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Do not attempt to self-treat.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Plavix (clopidogrel)?
It is generally advisable to limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Plavix (clopidogrel). Alcohol can increase the risk of stomach bleeding and may also interact with the medication, potentially enhancing its antiplatelet effects and further increasing the risk of hemorrhage. Discuss your alcohol intake with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Is Plavix (clopidogrel) safe during pregnancy?
Plavix (clopidogrel) is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks, as its safety in pregnant women has not been definitively established. It is categorized as a Pregnancy Category B drug, meaning animal studies have not shown risk, but human studies are lacking. Always consult your doctor to discuss the risks and benefits if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
What is the mechanism of action of clopidogrel?
Clopidogrel is a prodrug that requires hepatic activation. Its active metabolite irreversibly inhibits the P2Y12 subtype of ADP receptors on the platelet surface, preventing ADP-mediated activation of the glycoprotein GPIIb/IIIa complex. This inhibition reduces platelet aggregation and thrombus formation. (1)
What is the generic name of Clopidogrel?
The generic name is clopidogrel. It is sold under brand names including Clopivas, Clopidogrel Accord, Deplatt, Iscover, Grepid, CoPlavix.
What class of drug is clopidogrel?
Clopidogrel is classed as: Antiplatelet agent (P2Y12 platelet inhibitor).
References
- Plavix (clopidogrel) — Prescribing InformationU.S. DailyMed · United States · dated unresolved · accessed 2026-08-03 · source 1
- CLOPIDOGREL (CLOPIDOGREL BISULFATE) TABLET, FILM COATED [PREFERRED PHARMACEUTICALS INC.] — US prescribing information (DailyMed SPL)U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 2
- Clopidogrel — FDA approval record (Drugs@FDA ANDA090540)U.S. Food and Drug Administration · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 3
- clopidogrel — RxNorm normalized drug concept (RXCUI 236991)U.S. National Library of Medicine (RxNorm) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 4
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient clopidogrel names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.
Priority countries
United States
- Plavix75 mg, 300 mg · sanofi-aventis u.s. llc
Canada
- PLAVIX