Clopidogrel is used to prevent blood clots after a recent heart attack or stroke, and in people with certain disorders of the heart or blood vessels. It is given to people who have already had a heart attack or stroke or to people with other blood circulation problems that could lead to a stroke or heart attack.
Clopidogrel works by preventing a natural substance called adenosine diphosphate (ADP) from binding to its receptors on platelets. ADP is one of the chemicals in the body that cause platelets to clump together and start the process of blood clotting. As clopidogrel stops ADP from binding to platelets, it reduces the likelihood of clots forming in the blood.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to clopidogrel or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. Although blood levels of clopidogrel may be higher in elderly patients than in younger adults, it is not expected to cause different side effects or problems in older people than it does in other adults.
Take this medication by mouth usually once daily, with or without food, or as directed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember.
The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine: Bleeding, for example nosebleeds, bleeding at injection sites, bleeding in the stomach or bowels, Bruising, Diarrhoea, Abdominal pain, Indigestion. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: severe rash itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat) severe dizziness trouble breathing.