Clopidogrel
Also known as: Plavix
What it's for
Clopidogrel stops your blood cells (platelets) sticking together and forming clots. It is used after a heart attack, stroke, or if you have coronary stents to keep blood flowing.
Comes as: Tablets
How to take it
- Adults: Usually 75mg once a day.
- Take at the same time each day.
- You can take it with or without food.
- Do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor.
Doses here are typical. Always follow the instructions from your prescriber or on the packet — they come first.
Common side effects
- Bleeding or bruising more easily
- Diarrhoea or stomach pain
- Indigestion
The leaflet inside the packet lists all known side effects.
Important safety points
- Tell doctors and dentists you take clopidogrel before procedures
- You may need to stop it before surgery - your doctor will advise
- Avoid ibuprofen and naproxen unless your doctor agrees
- Tell your doctor if you have liver problems or a bleeding disorder
Get medical help urgently if…
- You have bleeding that will not stop
- You have blood in your urine, stool, or vomit
- You have a sudden severe headache or confusion
- You have unusual bruising
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 if someone is seriously unwell.
Before you act on anything here
This page is general information, written to help you understand — it is not personal medical advice and it cannot tell you what is right for you. Talk to your own GP, pharmacist or nurse about your own health.
- Need help now but it's not an emergency? Call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E.