What is Clopidogrel

Clopidogrel is a blood clotting preventive drug that acts against the platelets present in the blood circulating in the body. This drug is known to inhibit the ability of the platelets to clump together to form a blood clot. It is a drug belonging to thienopyridine class of antiplatelet agents.

About Clopidogrel:

Clopidogrel is used in the prevention of heart attack and stroke in patients who have a history of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), balloon angioplasty, etc. It is also used in the treatment of chest pain and angina. Clopidogrel works by irreversibly binding to P2Y12 receptors, which are present on platelets. This prevents ADP, or Adenosine diphosphate, from activating the platelets, and thus, a blood clot is not formed.

What is Blood Clotting?

Blood flows throughout our body to provide essential nutrients and oxygen to different parts of our body. But whenever there is an injury or cut on the body, the blood flow quickly shuts off to avoid unwanted spillage and loss of blood. This is called a blood clot, which is essential and lifesaving, but sometimes these blood clots may also form when they are not needed. Such blood clots can cause a heart attack or stroke. Blood clots in the arteries and veins can prevent the flow of blood through the blood vessels, potentially leading to a stroke or heart attack.

Why is this medication prescribed?

The medicine clopidogrel is prescribed to people who are at a very high risk of developing heart-related problems like:

• Myocardial infarction with ST-elevation
• Non-ST elevation myocardial infarction
• Unstable angina
• Stable ischemic heart disease
• Thrombosis etc.

How should this medicine be used?

Take the drug exactly as directed. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Please do not break or crush the tablet. You can take the drug with or without food. Take the tablet at the same time each day to avoid missing a dose.  Taking the tablet at the same time each day should become your habit, and you should avoid any missed dose or overdose.

 Other uses for this medicine:

Clopidogrel is also used to prevent blood clots in the blood vessels. But always ask your doctor before you ever take this drug due to the heart risks associated.

What special dietary instructions should I follow? The clopidogrel medication should be taken with a healthy and nutritious diet. It is recommended not to change your diet unless instructed to do so by your doctor; instead, you should continue with your normal, healthy diet.

What special precautions should I follow?

Here are a few things that you must keep in mind before taking this drug:

• Do not take this drug if you are allergic to it or any other ingredient of this drug
• Ask your doctor if you have ulcers that are bleeding, bleeding in the brain, or any other kind of severe bleeding problem.
• Avoid this drug if you have any kidney or liver disease
• Do not take this drug if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Avoid the drug if you have had any dental surgery or any tooth problems
• Special precautions should be taken while using this drug to avoid any cuts or injuries that could lead to unstoppable bleeding.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose at the right time, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is too late and the time for the next dose has already passed, then skip the dose and take the next dose at its scheduled time. Do not double the dose to compensate for the missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Tell your doctor as soon as possible if you notice any of the following side effects:

• Headaches
• Persistent nausea
• Mood changes
• Bloody stools
• Vomiting
• Confusion
• Irregular heartbeat
• Lightheadedness, fainting
• Sudden hearing loss
• Chest pain
• Fever
• Pale skin
• Sudden vision loss
• Coughing up blood or vomiting

In the above cases, seek immediate medical attention. Do not get alarmed by the list. You may /may not experience all of them. Tell your doctor immediately in the above situations.

What should I know about storing this medicine?

Always keep this drug in an airtight container, and keep it away from the reach of children. Medicines should be stored away from excessive heat and moisture.

In case of emergency/overdose

In cases where you feel you have accidentally taken an extra dose, contact your doctor immediately and seek their consultation.

What other information should I know?

• Never give the medication to anyone, even if the symptoms are similar
• Never change the dose without asking the doctor
• Take a diet full of healthy nutrients
• If you have any confusion, consult your doctor.