Clopidogrel is a popular drug that prevents the formation of blood clots in the heart and the blood vessels. This medicine is preferably used to prevent blood clotting. The blood clots may be formed after certain procedures, such as a cardiac stent, coronary artery bypass graft-CABG, or balloon angioplasty. Clopidogrel prevents heart attack or stroke in this way. This medicine is also prescribed for treating chest pain or angina.

Clopidogrel has an anti platelet activity. Certain types of cells are found in blood called blood platelets. These blood platelets are responsible for forming blood clots. Clopidogrel prevents these clots' formation and hence maintains the smooth blood flow. It is one of the most recommended preventive medicines for heart and related disorders. Clopidogrel is hence given in myocardial infarction, stroke and peripheral arterial disease.

Always take the drug dose as prescribed by the doctor only. Never change the dosage, start, or stop using the drug without doctor’s permission. Dosage may depend on health conditions, among several other factors. Swallow the tablet with a glass full of water. Do not break the tablet. This drug should be combined with a well-balanced calorie-controlled diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

Take the tablet simultaneously each day to avoid forgetting the dose. Take the drug as long as the doctor prescribes you to do. Do not stop taking medicine without his advice.

Certain other drugs can interact with Clopidogrel and increase the risk of serious muscle problems. So it is necessary to consult your doctor about the following drugs such as:

   — Antidepressant such as Rifampin, Rifabutin, Rifapentine

   — Antibiotics such as Clarithromycin, Erythromycin or others

   — Antifungal medication such as Itraconazole

   — Heparin

   — Cimetidine

   — Esomeprazole

   — High blood pressure drugs

   — Gemfibrozil

   — Prostate disorder drugs

   — HIV/AIDS medications like Atazanavir, Darunavir, Ritonavir, or others

You should not take this drug if you are:

   — Allergic to this drug or any of the other ingredients of this medicine

   — Pregnant

   — Breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed

   — Have liver, diabetes, kidney, or bladder issues

   — Have bleeding or blood clotting disorders

   — Have stomach ulcers or ulcerative colitis

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

• Headaches
• Persistent nausea
• Mood changes
• Bloody stools
• Vomiting
• Confusion
• Irregular heartbeat
• Light-headedness, fainting
• Chest pain or heavy feeling
• Coughing up blood or vomit
• Pale skin, fever and jaundice
• Sudden vision loss
• Sudden hearing loss

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the side effects of this medicine.