Clopidogrel
Information about Clopidogrel
Clopidogrel uses
Clopidogrel is used for prevention of heart attack and stroke, heart attack and Peripheral vascular disease. It decreases the chances of having another heart attack or stroke.
How clopidogrel works
Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet medication. It works by preventing platelets from sticking together, thereby decreasing the formation of harmful blood clots. This lowers the chance of heart attack or stroke.
Common side effects of clopidogrel
Bleeding
Content Details
Last updated on:
09 Jan 2020 | 04:16 PM (IST)
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Expert advice for Clopidogrel
- For best results, take it at the same time every day.
- Clopidogrel increases your risk of bleeding. Be careful while shaving, using sharp objects, or cutting fingernails or toenails.
- Do not discontinue using the medicine without consulting your doctor as this may increase your chances of having another heart attack or stroke.
- If you are scheduled to undergo a surgery or dental treatment, you may be asked to stop taking Clopidogrel temporarily.
Frequently asked questions for Clopidogrel
Clopidogrel
Q. Is Clopidogrel a blood thinner?
Yes, Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet medicine which is also known as a blood thinner. It makes your blood flow more easily through your veins and prevents clotting of blood.
Q. When should you take Clopidogrel?
You should take Clopidogrel exactly as prescribed by the doctor. You can take it at anytime of the day and preferably at the same time of each day for best results. It can be taken with or without food.
Q. Does Clopidogrel affect blood pressure?
Yes, Clopidogrel may cause a decrease in blood pressure, but rarely. It does not affect everyone. Inform your doctor if you experience a decrease in blood pressure.
Q. Who should not take Clopidogrel?
Clopidogrel is not recommended for people who are allergic to it, have severe liver disease, have stomach ulcers, bleeding in the brain, or have a bleeding disorder known as hemophilia. Additionally, avoid taking Clopidogrel if you are trying to get pregnant, already pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Q. Can I take omeprazole along with Clopidogrel?
Omeprazole (proton pump inhibitor [PPI]) may interfere with the working of Clopidogrel and reduce the effect of Clopidogrel. If in case, you need to take a PPI, consider taking lansoprazole.
Q. What will happen if I stop taking Clopidogrel?
If you stop taking Clopidogrel then within 5 days your blood may start clotting as previously. This may lead you to be at risk of stroke and heart attack.
Q. How long does it take Clopidogrel to start working? How long do I need to take it?
Clopiogrel starts working within 2 hours of taking it. Continue taking it as long as your doctor has advised you. You may have to take it for a few weeks or months, or you may have to take it for the rest of your life.
Q. What is Clopidogrel used for?
Clopidogrel prevents formation of blood clots in hardened blood vessels. This is done by preventing the clogging of platelets. These clots if formed can lead to heart attack, stroke, and even death.
Q. What are the side effects of taking Clopidogrel?
The most common side effect of Clopidogrel is bleeding which can be in stomach or intestine, in urine, or from nose. Other common side effects include diarrhea, abdominal pain, indigestion or heartburn. Whereas, the uncommon side effects include headache, stomach ulcer, vomiting, nausea, constipation, excessive gas in stomach or intestines, rashes, itching, dizziness, sensation of tingling and numbness.